Industrial policy

Jun
04
Energy Minister Chris Bowen cutting a tindo solar r

The dangers of neopopulism

Whether it's being sold under the banner of a "New Paradigm", "new centrism", "neopopulism", or a "Future Made in Australia", industrial policy will lead to less growth, insipid labour productivity, and a much poorer and more vulnerable Australia.
9 min read
Apr
15
How can we afford not to?

How can we afford not to?

Australia should resist Albo's "Future Made in Australia", which will make all but a few well-connected businesses and workers worse off. Instead, we should focus on boosting industry productivity through reforms such as eliminating trade barriers and zoning restrictions.
12 min read
Apr
08
Why Australia should stop digging into industrial policy

Why Australia should stop digging into industrial policy

The Albanese government's "new approach" to industrial policy is simply mid-20th century interventionism with a lick of green paint. It is wasting money on uncompetitive industries and creating a reliance on subsidies that are politically difficult to remove, burdening consumers and taxpayers.
10 min read
Mar
07
It's a good thing we don't make cars any more

It's a good thing we don't make cars any more

Chinese cars offer great value and affordability, but US automakers are lobbying for protection, just as they did with Japan in 70s. Fortunately, Australia's lack of auto manufacturing means that this time around, we can enjoy the full benefits of competition!
10 min read
Nov
03

We need a lighter touch, not a heavier hand

Australia’s Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, gave his thirteenth speech on the “defining decade” this week, which he also calls the
3 min read