News

// Research

December 2024

reports
A Lifeline to More Support
This report makes a case for the Victorian Government to partner with Lifeline Australia to find practical solutions for immediate need.
Health
December 2024

reports
Submission to the Governance, Energy and Finance Committee
This submission aims to address key aspects of the Queensland Productivity Commission Bill 2024.
Governance
November 2024

// SA

reports
Operating Without a Plan
This report argues for improved workforce planning for doctors in South Australia.
Health
November 2024

// AUS, SA

reports
Safety Not Guaranteed
This report identifies reforms to help prevent children from predation in workplaces in Australia.
Wages & Industrial Relations
November 2024

// NSW

reports
Submission to the NSW Legislative Assembly’s Essential Worker Housing Inquiry
This submission canvasses the crisis in housing availability and affordability for essential workers in New South Wales. Using up-to-date public wage...
Housing, Housing & Infrastructure
October 2024

// QLD

reports
A Healthy Queensland: A snapshot of the Queensland health sector
In this policy briefing we take a snapshot of the Queensland health system.
Health
October 2024

// QLD

reports
Gig work and reform of workers’ compensation and rehabilitation in Queensland
This report investigates issues facing Queensland’s workers’ compensation laws in relation to gig workers.
Wages & Industrial Relations
October 2024

reports
Bridging the Gap
Through needs-based funding, Queensland’s access to education can become more equitable. Here's how.
Education
September 2024

reports
A Stronger Safety Net
A new Financial Rights Service – a free legal services combined with financial counselling – is needed in QLD.
Economy & Society
September 2024

// TAS

reports
Breaking the Cycle: Public Sector Austerity and its Consequences in Tasmania
This report analyses long term public sector wage dynamics in Tasmania, and compares them with Australia's mainland jurisdictions. Using long-term price...
Economy & Society
August 2024

articles
Inside the Democratic National Convention
The McKell Institute had a front row seat for Kamala Harris’ nomination. Here’s what it was like.  
August 2024

reports
Immediate Aid, Measurable Impact
Increasingly, individuals and families are turning to emergency relief programs administered by charities as a last resort.
July 2024

NT

articles
Briefing Note – NT Election Leaders Debate
Yesterday, 37 days out from the Northern Territory election Chief Minister Eva Lawler and Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro met at the...
Economy & Society, Election
June 2024

articles
Explainer: Why the evidence suggests nuclear won’t work for Australia
The Coalition's nuclear proposal doesn't stack up economically. Here's why.
June 2024

// QLD, SA

reports
Suffering in Silence – making the case for reproductive leave in Australia
There is growing momentum to enshrine paid reproductive leave in the Fair Work Act (2009). Building on the momentum in the...
Wages & Industrial Relations
June 2024

articles
NSW Budget 2024/25 — Briefing Note
A delicate fiscal & economic context NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey today handed down the Minns Labor Government's second budget. In April,...
June 2024

// QLD

articles
QLD Budget 2024/25 – briefing note
On Tuesday June 11 2024 the Queensland Treasurer delivered his fifth Budget and the first for the Miles Government. In what...
June 2024

// SA

articles
SA Budget 2024/25 – briefing note
There were no surprises in today’s budget lock-up as the majority of the Hon Stephen Mullighan’s budget had been announced ahead...
Economy & Society
May 2024

// QLD, SA

articles
A Closure Framework for Mount Isa
In October 2023 Glencore announced that after 60 years of copper mining, the Mount Isa Mines’ underground copper operations (Enterprise, X41...
Economy & Society, Energy & Environment
May 2024

articles
A whole month for a mortgage?
To speak of a ‘housing crisis’ in Australia is increasingly trite. Housing in Australia is now simply a disaster. Month after...
Housing
May 2024

// SA

reports
Fuel on the Fire
The McKell Institute’s latest report, Fuel on the Fire: Fixing the policy gaps driving petrol station robberies in SA, outlines a...
Wages & Industrial Relations
May 2024

// VIC

reports
A Model for the Nation? Four Years of Victoria’s Section 33ZDA
In 2020, the Parliament of Victoria passed 33ZDA of the Supreme Court Act 1986 (Vic), empowering the Supreme Court of Victoria...
Governance
April 2024

// NSW

reports
Security Through Social Housing
NSW’s housing crisis is the most pressing public policy challenge facing the state. Housing affordability in NSW, and Sydney in particular,...
Economy & Society, Housing, Housing & Infrastructure
February 2024

// TAS

reports
A Better Deal
Tasmanians are suffering from the lowest per-capita spending on public transport in the country. This report recommends a new approach.
Economy & Society, Transport & Infrastructure
February 2024

// AUS

reports
Security Net
This report outlines a 3 stage reform process designed to prohibit IUU seafood from entering Australian markets.
Economy & Society
January 2024

articles
Our 2024/25 Budget Submission Offers 6 Ideas to Ease the Cost of Living
Over the past year, governments across Australia enacted billions of dollars in cost-of-living relief.  At a state level, pauses on transportation...
January 2024

reports
Easing the Burden
Over the past year, governments across Australia enacted billions of dollars in cost-of-living relief. McKell's 2024/5 budget submission offers six ideas...
January 2024

articles
Opinion: The cost-of-living gift Chalmers should unwrap
Too many working Australians are relying on payday lenders. The Albanese Government should provide an alternative.
December 2023

reports
2023 Annual Review | McKell Institute Queensland
With October marking a year to go until the next state election the next 12 months will provide an opportunity to...
December 2023

articles
These 11 McKell Ideas Became Government Policy in 2023.
11 McKell ideas are now government policy across Australia. Here's our 2023 wrap.
December 2023

reports
2023 McKell Institute Annual Report & Impact Statement
2023 has been a year of transition, growth and impact for the McKell Institute.
October 2023

// VIC

reports
Be the Disruptor
This submission to a Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into Housing Affordability presents a number of ideas that demonstrate how the Victorian Government...
Housing, Housing & Infrastructure
October 2023

reports
The Rise of Retail Violence & Abuse in Tasmania
Retail violence and abuse in Tasmania has been consistently rising in recent years. Reported incidences have increased by 40.3 per cent...
Wages & Industrial Relations
September 2023

reports
Our place in time: Making unpaid work count
Unpaid work dominates the global economy but takes a back seat in economic discussions and policymaking.
Economy & Society, Equality & Opportunity
September 2023

reports
Easing cost of living pressures through a price gouge crackdown
This submission into the ACTU-backed inquiry calls on the government to take action on pricing in order to achieve a two-pronged...
Economy & Society
September 2023

// AUS

articles
The relationship between the Commonwealth and consulting firms needs fixing. Here’s how to address it.
Download our submission here. The McKell Institute’s submission to the Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services’ Inquiry into Ethics and...
September 2023

// AUS

reports
Submission to the Commonwealth Parliament’s Inquiry into Accountability in Consulting
This submission details the drastic increase in the use of external consulting firms by the Commonwealth over the last decade. It...
Governance
August 2023

articles
Billion Dollar Burden: The Unfinished Business of Wage Theft Reform.
Wage theft still costs Australians over $1bn per year. McKell's latest wage theft calculator allows you to see how much wage...
August 2023

reports
Unfinished Business
There has been significant progress by state and federal governments in recent years aimed at addressing wage theft. Intentional underpayment, as...
Wages & Industrial Relations
July 2023

reports
Micro but Mighty: Magnifying Microbusiness in Australia
The microbusiness sector is the fastest growing sector of the small business community, and now employs 2.9 million people. Our leaders...
Equality & Opportunity, Wages & Industrial Relations
July 2023

reports
The Up-Skill Battle
NSW's regional and rural skills crisis has been compounded in recent years by tight labour market conditions. This report considers the...
May 2023

articles
95 per cent of gig workers want the sector reformed. Here’s why.
We conducted the largest ever survey of gig workers in Australia. The results demonstrate the need for reform.
March 2023

// QLD

reports
Communities in Crisis: Lifeline QLD Supporting Those in Need
This report calls for the funding model for community response services, like Lifeline, to move from a 'crisis response' model to...
Health, Health & Welfare
March 2023

reports
Tough Gig: Worker Perspectives on the Gig Economy
This research project involved one of the largest ever surveys of transport workers in the gig economy in Australia.
Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2023

reports
Under Pressure: Australia’s Mental Health Emergency
The mental health crisis in Australia is undeniable. According to pre-pandemic figures, almost one in five Australians experience mental illness each...
February 2023

reports
Flexible But Fair: The Case for Extending Portable Leave Entitlements to the NDIS Workforce
This report examines the NDIS, and why a novel Portable Entitlements Scheme is a necessary policy intervention.
Equality & Opportunity, Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2023

reports
A decade of wages lost
Australian wages have been in a period of low wage growth for more than a decade.
Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2023

reports
The Cost of Workplace Injury
This report considers the economic impact of workplace injury in South Australia, and examines performance issues facing the state's workers' compensation...
December 2022

reports
Annual Review 2022
In 2022, the first post-COVID federal election and progressive victory meant that McKell Institute research was at the forefront of the...
December 2022

reports
Setting the Standard: Improving Educational Outcomes in Australia
Since international standardised testing began in 2000, Australia’s educational standing has steadily declined relative to our peers. Of the 35 countries...
September 2022

// VIC

reports
Working, learning: Supporting Victorian apprentices on the job
Apprenticeships remain a key part of the skills development system that is providing Victoria with the skilled workforce required to meet...
September 2022

reports
The Cost of Extreme Weather
Climate change is no longer a theory, it’s a fact. The consequences are upon us, and there are both severe direct...
Energy & Environment
August 2022

reports
Women in work: A story of exclusion
This brief report seeks to analyse and identify the population cohorts that have been excluded from the labour market.
August 2022

reports
First Mover Moment
Australia is in the midst of a remarkable energy transition. With the election of the Albanese Government in 2022, Australia is...
Energy & Environment, Equality & Opportunity
July 2022

reports
‘It’s Broken’
Workers' compensation is an essential safety net, and is intended to provide a degree of financial protection for those workers unfortunate...
May 2022

reports
Capitalising on the Lithium-Ion Battery Waste Resource Challenge in South Australia
The EV revolution promises a future of low-emissions transportation, and is essential if Australia is to meet its climate obligations. But...
May 2022

reports
Wage cutting strategies in the mining industry: an update
This report examines the economic impact of the increased use of labour-hire in key mining communities across Australia. 
April 2022

// AUS

reports
Stuck in Neutral: The Policy Architecture Driving Slow Wage Growth in Australia
Australian workers are enduring a sustained period of low wage growth, in both the private and public sectors, in all Australian...
Wages & Industrial Relations
April 2022

reports
Data brief: Economic records don’t match the election rhetoric
Economic management is a feature of all election campaigns, but key claims made to date do not stack up. This Data...
April 2022

articles
The Government’s pledge on wages can’t be trusted. Here’s why.
Everything is uncertain – except wages growth?  In Josh Frydenberg’s budget address Tuesday night, the treasurer highlighted the unpredictability of the...
March 2022

reports
Funding the Infrastructure of Tomorrow
Australians’ quality of life depends on the ongoing provision of quality infrastructure. It has a social purpose. It is an essential component...
Equality & Opportunity, Housing & Infrastructure
January 2022

// AUS

reports
Burns Care in Victoria
This report explores how Victoria can improve specialist care for burns patients in the state. excerpt
Health & Welfare, Housing & Infrastructure
December 2021

// AUS

articles
2021 changed Australia. Here was McKell’s Policy Contribution.
The pandemic continued to test policymakers in 2021. Here's McKell's contribution to the year's debate.
Health & Welfare
December 2021

reports
Mortgaging our Future
This report examines the effects of 'super-for-housing' policies on house prices, finding the proposal would be detrimental to Australians' economic wellbeing.
Housing & Infrastructure, Tax & Superannuation
December 2021

reports
Calling for Help
In partnership with Lifeline, this report explores the mental health impact of COVID-19 and how crisis lines supported Victorians during the...
Health & Welfare
December 2021

reports
Annual Review 2021
The McKell Institute Annual Review 2021
December 2021

// SA

reports
From Laggard to Leader
South Australia has the second highest rate of job insecurity and the lowest pay in Australia. This report details the challenge,...
Wages & Industrial Relations
December 2021

reports
Queensland Annual Review
The McKell Institute Queensland's 2021 Annual Review.
December 2021

reports
Trading Up: Free TAFE
Free TAFE courses in identified areas of skill shortages is an economic reform that would help Australia build back stronger after...
Equality & Opportunity
November 2021

reports
Funding Rare Disease Therapies in Australia
For the 2 million Australians living with rare diseases, access to medicines can be inadequate. This report reassesses 2014 research by...
Health & Welfare
November 2021

reports
Rethinking Redundancy
Automation is changing the way we work. But reforming the way Australia's redundancy system works can help protect workers from disruption.
Wages & Industrial Relations
October 2021

reports
Submission into the Queensland Parliament’s Trading Hours Inquiry 2021
This submission details the consequences of proposed deregulation of trading hours in Queensland, citing independent public polling that highlights opposition to...
Wages & Industrial Relations
October 2021

reports
Can revenue contingent loans support the small business recovery?
Uncertainty will undoubtedly be impacting on business decisions with respect to commercial borrowing to help replace recession-induced falls in revenue. In...
September 2021

reports
The Implications of Common Ownership and Capital Concentration in Australia
Capital concentration has the potential to distort market competition and increase rent-seeking behaviour. It can hinder businesses who seek to access...
September 2021

// QLD

reports
Bridging Queensland’s Digital Divide
As the world moves increasingly online, digital inclusion is necessary for people to be fulsomely engaged in economic, social and civic...
Innovation & Technology
August 2021

// VIC

reports
Bridge Over Troubled Water
The COVID-19 pandemic caused Australia’s first recession in a generation, including the largest ever quarterly fall in gross domestic product on...
Housing & Infrastructure
July 2021

reports
The Missing Link
Australia's vaccine roll-out has been poor. This report explores how enabling more community pharmacies to deliver the vaccine will help accelerate...
Health & Welfare
July 2021

// AUS

articles
The Case for a National Scheme for Paid Vaccination Leave
As millions of doses arrive in Australia over coming months, policymakers will increasingly need to focus on ensuring demand for vaccines...
Health & Welfare, Wages & Industrial Relations
June 2021

reports
Stuck in Neutral
This report examines seven policy preferences of the federal government, and their effects on wage growth.
Wages & Industrial Relations
June 2021

reports
Build it Here
This report quantifies the forgone local economic activity to NSW resulting from offshoring major projects, through an examination of six major...
Housing & Infrastructure
June 2021

reports
Options Paper: Incentivising Tradeswork and Shiftwork Post COVID-19
This report examines the experience of this segment of the workforce during COVID-19 and outlines a policy agenda that will provide...
Equality & Opportunity, Housing & Infrastructure, Wages & Industrial Relations
May 2021

articles
Active Transport, Not Coal Fired Cars: Sustainable Transport Policy for Queensland
This article is a modified version of a speech by Hon Rachel Nolan delivered to the 11th Queensland Transport Infrastructure Conference.
May 2021

articles
Buy High, Sell Low? The early super access scheme and foregone returns on investment
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government allowed individuals affected to access up to a total of $20,000 of their...
Tax & Superannuation
May 2021

articles
Budget 2021-22: The Good & the Bad.
Budget 2021-22 contained almost $100 billion of new spending and a suite of major initiatives. But there is always room for...
May 2021

articles
Budget 2021-22: Action on wage theft left for another day
The Federal Budget missed an opportunity to adequately resource efforts to combat wage theft and exploitation.
Wages & Industrial Relations
May 2021

reports
Counting the Cost of Australia’s Delayed Vaccine Roll-out: Part Two
This is the second report of our series that quantifies the economic impacts of Australia's delayed vaccination program.
Health & Welfare
April 2021

reports
Counting the Cost of Australia’s Delayed Vaccine Roll-out: Part One
This report quantifies the economic impacts of Australia's delayed vaccination program.
Health & Welfare
March 2021

reports
Power to the People: Proposals to Increase the Rollout of Community Batteries
Australia has the best solar resources and some of the best wind resources in the world. Australia can become a renewable...
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
March 2021

reports
Submission into the NSW Treasury’s consultation process for property tax reform
McKell Institute's submission into the NSW Treasury's property tax reform inquiry.
Housing & Infrastructure, Tax & Superannuation
March 2021

reports
The Crumbling Australian Dream: An Examination of Australia’s Housing Sector
2020 was a year like no other and changed many of the ways we live and work, and many of these...
Housing & Infrastructure
March 2021

articles
Only more women will fix parliament’s ‘culture’ problem. Here’s how to do it …
Australia ranks 50th in terms of female representation in its Federal Parliament. This article explains why - and proposes new ideas...
February 2021

reports
Insecure Work & Portable Entitlements: A Solution for Australia
Insecure work is a growing challenge in Australia. This report explores how the implementation of a portable entitlements scheme could improve...
Equality & Opportunity, Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2021

articles
The early years: four small charts that tell a big story
All of us who spend time with young children know just how much they learn, and how quickly. The early years...
Equality & Opportunity
December 2020

articles
Debunking super myths #2: Australia’s fees are too high by international standards
In this latest superannuation mythbuster, James Pawluk counters arguments Australia's super fees are out of line with the rest of the...
December 2020

articles
2020 transformed Australia’s policy landscape. Here’s McKell’s contribution.
2020 tested policy thinkers like never before. Our year in review details McKell's contribution.
December 2020

reports
Blue Harvest
Wage theft remains rampant in Australian horticulture, even during COVID-19. This investigative report explores the issue in northern NSW's blueberry industry.
Wages & Industrial Relations
December 2020

// QLD

reports
The McKell Institute Queensland’s 2020 Annual Review
The McKell Institute Queensland's 2020 Annual Review.
November 2020

articles
Many jobs, little support: Multiple Jobholders and the COVID-19 recession
Many Australians work more than one job, and for most it’s an economic necessity. Stitching together different jobs, often in different...
October 2020

// QLD

reports
Riding the Revolution
This report offers new ideas to help South East Queensland embrace an active transport revolution.
Housing & Infrastructure
October 2020

articles
Debunking Super Myths #1 – Fees in default funds is not where the real problem is
As the superannuation debate ramps up, the McKell Institute will be sorting fact from fiction. In this article, James Pawluk counters...
Tax & Superannuation
October 2020

// NSW

reports
Activating the Harbour City
This Discussion Paper outlines a proposal to deliver Sydneysiders continuous foreshore access from the Sydney Opera house to Parramatta CBD.
Equality & Opportunity, Housing & Infrastructure
October 2020

reports
Why reform of the Child Care Subsidy would strengthen Australia’s economy
This report advocates a universal Child Care Subsidy and evaluates the Working Family Child Care Boost.
Equality & Opportunity
September 2020

reports
Mapping Food Insecurity
Australia is a prosperous country, but too many Australian families experience food insecurity. This report explores the issue in Queensland.
Health & Welfare
September 2020

articles
How much will JobKeeper reductions affect your community?
JobKeeper is set to be significantly reduced from September 28, 2020. Postcode level data demonstrates the extent of the changes in...
Equality & Opportunity, Wages & Industrial Relations
September 2020

reports
Crossing the Fiscal Cliff
At the end of September, JobKeeper payments will be reduced for millions of Ausrtalian workers. This report explores the impact of...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare, Wages & Industrial Relations
August 2020

articles
Opinion: Younger Australians are being left behind. Our COVID response can change course.
For the first time in decades, Australia is at risk of leaving a generation worse off than those who came before...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare
August 2020

articles
The Impact of COVID-19 on Women and Work in Victoria
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on women in the workforce. This article charts to what extent, and what...
July 2020

// AUS

articles
The Case for a National Scheme for Paid Pandemic Leave
The recent second wave shows us that current policies aren’t enough. We need a dedicated scheme to ensure that sick people...
Health & Welfare, Wages & Industrial Relations
July 2020

// NSW, VIC

articles
Why the experts believe wearing a mask is effective
We list some of the common arguments against wearing masks, and why they should be debunked. Feel free to share this...
Health & Welfare
July 2020

articles
University Course Fees Face Dramatic Restructure: Young People at Risk Again
As Australia faces our first recession in nearly three decades, the Government should be doing everything in their power to stimulate...
Equality & Opportunity
June 2020

// Queensland

reports
Reopening Queensland
This report collates recommendations put forward by participants of McKell Institute Queensland's 'Reopening Queensland Digital Roundtable', held on June 10, 2020.
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare, Innovation & Technology
June 2020

reports
A Fairer Pathway
Australia is an immigration nation, and among the most successful multicultural countries in the world. But for too many new migrants,...
Wages & Industrial Relations
June 2020

// NSW

reports
Reopening NSW
COVID-19 remains a significant health risk. But policymakers are now in the process of considering how to safely reopen economies.
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare, Innovation & Technology
June 2020

articles
Australia at a Crossroads: A Brief Overview of the Current Options for Economic Reform
The COVID-19 induced recession ends a 28 year long period of sustained economic growth, the longest period of continuous economic growth...
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
June 2020

// QLD

articles
Queensland’s Renewable Energy Target: A critical goal with real challenges to delivery
Queensland’s emissions are the highest in the country, and a lack of a coherent federal energy policy is further hampering Queensland's...
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
June 2020

reports
A COVID-19 Tax Rebate for Frontline Workers
This paper makes the case that future tranches of fiscal stimulus should target Australian workers who have been on the frontline...
Wages & Industrial Relations
June 2020

reports
Australian Aviation after COVID-19
This report outlines the principles that should govern an Australian Aviation Plan in the wake of the COVID-19 economic downturn.
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
May 2020

articles
COVID-19: Ten charts that tell the story of Australia’s downturn
Data has started to emerge painting a picture of the scale of the COVID downturn - and highlight where we need...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare
April 2020

articles
COVID-19: Why the economic fallout is exacerbating inequality
The economic fallout of COVID-19 is making inequality worse, with the most profound economic impacts being felt by those who were...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare
March 2020

articles
COVID-19: 9 reasons why accessing super early is a risky idea
Many of Australia's economic responses to COVID-19 have been necessary and welcome. But changes to super policy risk undermining the system,...
Tax & Superannuation
March 2020

articles
A timeline of global economic responses to COVID-19
COVID-19 is one of the biggest health challenges in memory - but it is also causing economic hardship. We're keeping tabs...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare
March 2020

reports
A COVID-19 downturn and its impact on workers
COVID-19 is a major health challenge. It also creates unprecedented economic challenges, especially for low income workers, and the 3.7 million...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare, Wages & Industrial Relations
March 2020

reports
Wage-cutting Strategies in the Mining Industry
This report explores the economic impact of the casualisation and increase in labour-hire in the mining industry.
Wages & Industrial Relations
March 2020

reports
Economic Benefits of Universal Superannuation
Australia’s superannuation system not only ensures that working Australians can retire with dignity but also provides a number of broad economic...
Tax & Superannuation
February 2020

articles
The problem with junior pay rates, explained.
Australians believe in a fair day's wage for a fair day's work. Why, then, do young Australians receive so much less?
November 2019

reports
Opportunities in Change
The nature of work in Australia is rapidly changing. This report explores the forces that are shaping the Australian labour market,...
Equality & Opportunity, Wages & Industrial Relations
October 2019

reports
Disability & Rare Disease
Too many Australians with rare diseases aren't receiving the treatment they deserve. This report explores how we can do better.
Health & Welfare
September 2019

articles
Does higher superannuation reduce workers’ wages?
Despite claims to the contrary, there is scant empirical evidence of a causal relationship between superannuation increases and low wage growth.
May 2019

// NSW

articles
7 million Pacific Islanders have no electricity. Australia can help.
Millions in the Pacific Islands have no access to electricity. Their growing demand for cleaner, off-grid energy solutions provides an opportunity...
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
May 2019

reports
Islands of Opportunity
Millions across the Pacific Island region live without power. This report explores how Australia can step up to this challenge, and...
Equality & Opportunity
May 2019

articles
The electorate-level benefit of restoring penalty rates
A reduction in penalty rate income continues to be felt across all Australian electorates. This analysis identifies the cost in each...
Wages & Industrial Relations
May 2019

articles
How Government investment in housing can boost the economy
For many Australians, home ownership remains a distant dream. This article explores how greater investment in social housing can improve housing...
Housing & Infrastructure
May 2019

// NSW

reports
The Economic Impacts of the Australian Investment Guarantee
This discussion paper explores the economic impact of the Australian investment guarantee, an economic policy initiative of the Federal Opposition's taken...
Wages & Industrial Relations
April 2019

reports
Fork in the Road
This report forecasts the impact on workers' incomes over the next term of parliament under the two major parties' respective penalty...
Wages & Industrial Relations
April 2019

// AUS

articles
Representative Government: Diversity in the next Parliament
Australians will soon go to the polls but latest data* from the McKell Institute shows voters will be limited for choice.
March 2019

reports
Ending Wage Theft
Wage theft is endemic across Australia. This report outlines how state and federal governments can do more to eradicate underpayment.
Wages & Industrial Relations
March 2019

// AUS, NSW

articles
The case for Mandatory Preferential voting in NSW
Over the next three months, NSW voters will vote under two different systems. With the rate of informal votes being cast...
March 2019

// SA

reports
The Economic Impact of Wage Theft in South Australia
Wage theft is becoming endemic in Australia. This report looks at its likely economic impact on South Australia's economy.
Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2019

// NSW

reports
Even Growth
By 2050, Sydney is expected to be home to more than 8 million people. This report explores how the challenges and...
Housing & Infrastructure
January 2019

articles
Why is job insecurity so prevalent in Australia?
For years, Australia’s economic stats have looked pretty rosy. So why are so many Australians stuck in insecure work?
Wages & Industrial Relations
December 2018

articles
Why Low Wages Growth Will Threaten A Return to Surplus
December's MYEFO celebrated a forecast return to surplus. But should wage growth remain stubbornly low, the forecast surplus might be smaller...
Wages & Industrial Relations
December 2018

reports
Taking on Tax Avoidance
Tax avoidance by large multinationals is a significant problem in Australia as it is around the world. This report explores options...
Tax & Superannuation
December 2018

// AUS

reports
Success in Diversity
Australia is often referred to as the ‘most successful multicultural country on earth. But what does this really mean? How is...
Equality & Opportunity
December 2018

articles
Why Australia is the world’s most successful multicultural society
Australia is often referred to as the ‘most successful multicultural country on earth’. But what does this really mean? And how...
December 2018

reports
Encouraging Efficiency
The Australian energy market has seen significant changes over the last couple of years. The major conclusion that has come out...
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
November 2018

articles
Negative Gearing reform has never been more important. Here’s why.
Despite the scare campaigns, negative gearing reform is as needed now as it was when McKell first made the case in...
Housing & Infrastructure
November 2018

reports
Levelling the Playing Field
Professor Richard Holden, author of The McKell Institute's influential Switching Gears report in 2015, re-prosecutes the case for pursuing negative gearing...
Housing & Infrastructure
November 2018

// QLD

reports
Stopping the Spread
This report explores the problem of marine litter in Australia, providing strategies whose implementation could reduce our “marine” footprint and expand...
Housing & Infrastructure
November 2018

// QLD

reports
Wage Theft, Economic Distress
This report provides an important contribution to the emerging debate on wage theft and its impact on Queensland and Australia’s economy.
Wages & Industrial Relations
October 2018

articles
Why keeping a lid on wholesale gas prices will lower your power bill
If the government is serious about lowering power prices, it must deliver long-term stability to Australia’s gas sector.
October 2018

// AUS, NSW, QLD, SA, TAS

reports
Cost of Inaction: Addendum 1
Household energy prices across electorates in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania, will continue to rise until 2020...
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
September 2018

reports
Our Health, Our Wealth
Early retirement due to ill health imposes a significant economic cost. Work VISES undertook for the APEC Business Advisory Committee and...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare
July 2018

reports
Investing Superannuation for the Public Good
This report addresses the question of how superannuation trustees, whose funds dominate Australian capital markets, can ensure that they are investing...
Tax & Superannuation
May 2018

reports
Stalling Wages, Falling Growth
Australia, like many developed nations post the Global Financial Crisis, is enduring a period of declining wage growth and increasing inequality...
Wages & Industrial Relations
May 2018

// AUS

reports
The Social Benefit of Economic Ties
As the United Kingdom moves towards leaving the European Union, there are national conversations to be had on trade policy, which...
Equality & Opportunity
May 2018

// NSW

reports
Trading Up
As Australia’s economy navigates a period of unprecedented transformation, quality education for all Australians has never been more important. For generations,...
Equality & Opportunity
May 2018

// NSW

reports
Keep NSW in a Healthy State
In this report, trends in health spending and outcomes are examined, focusing on change until 2030, but also noting the likely...
Health & Welfare
March 2018

// SA

reports
High Risk, Low Reward
The oft-discussed issue of retail trading hours deregulation has once again emerged as a central issue in the state.
Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2018

reports
The Cost of Inaction
Wholesale gas prices play a central role in shaping household power prices, and current wholesale gas prices are significantly inflated, impacting...
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
January 2018

// AUS

reports
Mapping Opportunity
One of Australia’s most significant achievements has been its strong and prospering economy with a growing middle class and the equal...
Equality & Opportunity
January 2018

// VIC

reports
Delivering More
In 2015, when the McKell Institute released our first report into Australia Post, the business was about to record its first...
Innovation & Technology
December 2017

reports
The Impact of Penalty Rate Cuts on National Growth Trends
This discussion paper explores the role that penalty rate cuts have had on national economic data released for Quarter 3, 2017.
Wages & Industrial Relations
November 2017

articles
The case for Medically Supervised Injecting Facilities
Harm reduction and crime prevention: measuring the impact of supervised injecting facilities There are over 70 medically supervised injecting facilities (MSIFs)...
October 2017

// VIC

reports
The Place to Make
This report offers a comprehensive strategy to ensure Victoria's manufacturing sector thrives.
Housing & Infrastructure
October 2017

reports
Picking the Low Hanging Fruit
This report explores how the government provision of complimentary medicines can create a more equitable health system in Australia.
Health & Welfare
October 2017

reports
Guaranteeing Women’s Super
Women in Australia typically hold around half the superannuation as men. This report explores targeted measures to help overcome this enduring...
Tax & Superannuation
September 2017

reports
Assessing the Impact
This report finds that Australian workers stand to lose up to $9.5 million in income over the Grand Final / Labour...
Wages & Industrial Relations
August 2017

reports
Social Emergency Lending: Social Emergency Saving
This report advances the concept of a national Social Emergency Lending scheme that could grant Australians easy access to emergency funds...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare
August 2017

reports
Literature review of Aboriginal affairs policies & case study of OCHRE
An examination of policy approaches to Aboriginal affairs in NSW, and case study of development and implementation OCHRE, the state's guiding...
Equality & Opportunity, Health & Welfare
August 2017

// VIC

reports
Getting Melbourne Moving
Melbourne is getting bigger. To capitalise on its growing population, innovative data-driven approaches to transport need to be explored.
Housing & Infrastructure
July 2017

// AUS

articles
Designing an Education System for the 21st Century
Australia stands to gain economically and socially from pursuing education reform that prepares our children for a new digitally enabled world.
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
June 2017

articles
Immunising Australia: Improving Australia’s Vaccination Rates
Australia remains a leading immunisation nation. But in key demographic groups, improvements in the immunisation rate need to be improved to...
June 2017

// AUS

articles
Privatised Hospitals: An Accountability Black Hole
Privately run public hospitals are becoming a more popular choice for governments, but are operating below the radar.
Health & Welfare
May 2017

// NSW

articles
Planning for success: Why the New South Wales Government should reform planning laws
If Sydney is to tackle its housing affordability issue, then more housing development must be approved.
Housing & Infrastructure
May 2017

reports
Unfair Burden
This report explores the impact of the Fair Work Commission's decision to lower Sunday penalty rates on regional and rural Australia.
Wages & Industrial Relations
May 2017

articles
Improving Female Leadership in Australia
Despite the topic capturing the attention of policy makers and businesses, and impressive gains by women in education over past decades,...
Equality & Opportunity
May 2017

articles
Launching The McKell Institute’s Ideas Forum
Executive Director Sam Crosby launching The McKell Institute new initiative, The Ideas Forum.
Innovation & Technology
April 2017

reports
Harnessing the Boom
Australia is on the cusp of a natural gas boom, with hundreds of billions of dollars worth of natural gas set...
Equality & Opportunity, Innovation & Technology
March 2017

// AUS

reports
Big Data, Big Possibilities
Big Data is changing the way citizens engage with the world around them. This report explores how the strategic implementation of...
Health & Welfare, Innovation & Technology
March 2017

// QLD

reports
Proceed with Care
Trading hours in Queensland are set for deregulation. But this report finds the benefits might not outweigh the consequences.
Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2017

reports
The Impact of the FWC’s February 23 Sunday Penalty Rates Decision
This report explores the impact of the Fair Work Commission's February 23 2017 decision to reduce Sunday penalty rates.
Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2017

// AUS

reports
Committing to the Innovation Nation
The R&D Tax Incentive is an essential policy in fostering Australian innovation. This report shows why.
Innovation & Technology
October 2016

// AUS

reports
Unfounded and Unfair
This report analyses the Building and Construction Industry Code (2014), and how it Australians working in the construction industry.
Wages & Industrial Relations
October 2016

// AUS

reports
Bio-Savvy
Bio-Savvy examines the challenges and opportunities associated with fostering a strong bio-tech sector in Australia.
Innovation & Technology
October 2016

// AUS

reports
No Mind Left Behind
No Mind Left Behind introduces the first of McKell’s opportunity indexes, mapping Australia’s most advantaged and disadvantaged in terms of educational...
Equality & Opportunity
September 2016

// AUS

reports
Trading in Confidence
Australia's a proud and thriving trading nation. However, in order to maintain confidence in international trade, anti-dumping measures must be reinforced...
September 2016

// NSW

reports
Submission: NSW Review into Apprenticeships & Traineeships
The McKell Institute's submission into the NSW Government review into Apprenticeships and Traineeship policy in the state.
Equality & Opportunity, Wages & Industrial Relations
September 2016

// AUS

reports
Choosing Opportunity
'Choosing Opportunity' offers a comprehensive policy blueprint for a fairer, more prosperous Australia.
Equality & Opportunity
September 2016

// AUS

reports
Giving Local Governments the Re-Boot
Many of Australia's local governments lack the financial resources they need. This report offers options for reform to meet the shortfall.
Innovation & Technology
May 2016

reports
Switching Gears: Addendum II
This addendum to Switching Gears outlines the precise impact on house prices under the proposed changes.
Housing & Infrastructure
May 2016

// NSW

reports
Two Birds, One Stone
Sydney's traffic is among the worst in the world. This report explores creative ideas to harness existing community assets to alleviate...
Housing & Infrastructure
April 2016

// AUS

reports
Pipe Dreams
Pipe Dreams explores why infrastructure in Australia is so expensive, and outlines ideas to help drive the cost down.
Housing & Infrastructure
March 2016

// NSW

reports
A Plan to End Stamp Duty
This report examines the option of replacing stamp duty with a more equitable land tax in New South Wales.
Housing & Infrastructure, Tax & Superannuation
February 2016

// AUS

reports
The Importance of Penalty Rates for Our Health Workforce
Penalty rates play a vital role in the economy. For our heath workforce, they are particularly important. This report outlines why.
Wages & Industrial Relations
February 2016

// AUS

reports
Switching Gears: Addendum 1
This additional research to The McKell Institute's 2015 Switching Gears report outlines the positive impact the recommendations would have on GDP...
Housing & Infrastructure
December 2015

// QLD

reports
The Economic Impact of Penalty Rate Cuts
Penalty rates are essential to the livelihoods of workers in the retail and hospitality industries. This report outlines the impact of...
Wages & Industrial Relations
September 2015

// AUS

reports
Positive Disruption
Australia's population is ageing. This report offers ideas that will reform aged care, and better enable our population to engage in...
Health & Welfare, Innovation & Technology
July 2015

// NSW

reports
The Economic Impact of Penalty Rates Cuts on Rural NSW
Penalty rates play a central role in rural and regional economies throughout Australia. This study explores the impact in rural New...
Wages & Industrial Relations
June 2015

// AUS

reports
Baby Steps or Giant Strides?
The early years are the most important in a child's development. However, Australia's early childhood education system is in urgent need...
Equality & Opportunity
June 2015

// AUS

reports
Switching Gears
In this influential report, The McKell Institute argues for various changes to negative gearing to improve housing affordability in Australia.
Housing & Infrastructure
April 2015

// AUS

reports
Who loses when penalty rates are cut?
This report explores the economic impact of reducing penalty rates for Australia's retail and hospitality workers, and the broader economy.
Wages & Industrial Relations
March 2015

// AUS

reports
Unsafe and Unfair
This report examines the Federal Government’s attempt to reform the workers’ compensation landscape via the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Legislation Amendment...
Wages & Industrial Relations
March 2015

// AUS

reports
Digital Post
Digital Post explores the challenges facing Australia Post, and the need for change to embrace contemporary circumstances.
Innovation & Technology
December 2014

// NSW

reports
Nothing to gain, plenty to lose
The NSW Government entered the 2015 state election with a plan to privatise NSW's power networks. This report outlines why NSW...
Housing & Infrastructure
November 2014

// AUS

reports
Risky Business
The privatisation of elements of Australia's healthcare system is highly prone to unforeseen consequences. This report explores the risks of privatisation,...
Health & Welfare
November 2014

// AUS

reports
Funding Rare Disease Therapies in Australia
Australia's system for funding new therapies that treat rare diseases is in need of reform. This report outlines actionable policy changes...
Health & Welfare
November 2014

// AUS

reports
Getting Us There
A key challenge facing policymakers is the question of how to fund new transport infrastructure in an increasingly constrained fiscal environment....
Housing & Infrastructure
August 2014

// AUS

reports
The Success of Representative Governance on Superannuation Boards
This report explores the governance structures and performance of industry superannuation funds in comparison to other funds in both the Australian...
Wages & Industrial Relations
August 2014

// AUS

reports
Superfast Broadband
The NBN is central to Australia's economic future. This report explains how, and what must be done to ensure it delivers.
Innovation & Technology
July 2014

// NSW

reports
Giving the West the Best
The Western Sydney airport must be of the highest standard. By opening the design to architectural competition, the best vision for...
Housing & Infrastructure
March 2014

// NSW

reports
Meeting the Shortfall
Clubs play an important role in communities across New South Wales. This report explores options to facilitate a new wave of...
June 2013

// AUS

reports
The Case for a National Portable Long Service Leave Scheme in Australia
It is becoming increasingly rare for Australian workers to stay in a job long enough to enjoy long service leave. This...
Wages & Industrial Relations
November 2012

// AUS

reports
Understanding Productivity
Australia's productivity performance over the last decade has slipped. This report offers ideas to get Australia back on track.
Innovation & Technology
June 2012

// AUS

reports
Homes for All
In this, The McKell Institute's seminal report, the defining issue of our day - housing affordability - is addressed, with 40...
Housing & Infrastructure