Full Story Newsroom edition: can Labor jumpstart the economy?
Aug 14, 2025
Mike Ticher, Head of Newsroom at Guardian Australia, and Patrick Commins, the outlet's Economics Editor, discuss the upcoming economic summit convened by the Albanese government. They explore ambitious proposals like a four-day work week and challenges surrounding housing development. Ticher and Commins analyze the government's cautious approach to reform in the face of powerful interests while addressing urgent issues like housing affordability. AI's dual role in enhancing productivity and potential job displacement is also a key topic of conversation.
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Episode notes
Summit Is About Ideas Not Immediate Policy
- The summit is framed as an ideas forum, not a policy-making event.
- Jim Chalmers wants consensus and an 'open door, open mind' approach to gather proposals.
Expectations Have Been Narrowed
- The initial broad scope of possible reforms has narrowed since the summit was announced.
- Treasury and the PM have signalled limits, reducing expectations of radical policy change.
Deregulation Seen As Key To Housing Supply
- Deregulation, especially of planning and environmental approvals, features prominently in proposals.
- Trimming red tape like the National Construction Code and EPBC Act is seen as key to unlocking housing supply.