Politics Now Sizzle or fizzle? The verdict on the Roundtable
Aug 21, 2025
Tom McIlroy, Chief Political Correspondent for Guardian Australia, joins the conversation to unpack the recent Economic Reform Roundtable in Canberra. The atmosphere was upbeat, with participants eager to avoid 'regulatory hairballs' and discuss sustainable funding for the NDIS. McIlroy dives into the implications of Australia recognizing Palestinian statehood and its impact on relations with Israel. They also touch on the delicate balance of international diplomacy, especially amidst ongoing tensions and the need for clear communication in foreign policy.
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Roundtable Sought Consensus, Not Combat
- Participants at the Economic Reform Roundtable emphasised optimism and avoiding being spoilers while seeking consensus on reform ideas.
- The event's success will be measured by which ideas move from talk to implementable policy.
Spending Limits Define Reform Possibility
- Budget sustainability and growth of big programs like the NDIS were central to the roundtable's tax and spending day.
- Without controlling major spending drivers, broader tax and reform conversations risk being meaningless.
Prioritise Copyright And AI Safety
- Pay creatives fairly and develop protections against AI harm as emerging consensus items from the roundtable.
- Prioritise clear policy on copyright and AI safety to turn consensus into tangible protections.