Australia’s policy making processes were the most transparent in the world and produced better outcomes according to new research officially unveiled by Assistant Treasurer, Chris Bowen. Mr Bowen is also Minister for Competition Policy and Consumer Affairs. He said the study Policy Transparency: Why Does it Work? Who Does it Best? examined how more transparent policy-making, particularly relating to trade policy, could bring better economic, social and environmental outcomes. Mr Bowen said the report was prepared by the Centre for International Economics for the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) and promoted the removal of trade barriers in global trade talks.
Research study validates PS practice
“Australia stands to gain substantially from reform of global trade, particularly in agriculture where protectionist policies in other countries distort the market and drive down prices for our highly efficient farmers,” Mr Bowen said. He said the report found Australia was a standout example of transparent policy-making processes and that the Productivity Commission produced high quality, independent and credible economic analysis to help Government decision making. “This report highlights that when the public is informed of the true costs and benefits of particular policy decisions, the national interest is best served,” he said. “Australia can use this report and our own experience of reforming the economy, particularly during the 1980s, to argue that removing barriers to trade is in our own interests.” He said the report argued that better policy-making processes would make it easier to find a conclusion to the ongoing Doha round of World Trade Organisation trade negotiations. “Australia's economic resilience over the past two decades owes a lot to our transparent policy processes and the reforms we have undertaken in that time,” he said. “This report is a useful contribution to the debate about economic policy and how more transparent decision-making can benefit all sectors of an economy.” Mr Bowen said the report was one of several produced by RIRDC to contribute to trade policy and help Australian farmers receive a better deal internationally. He said the report was available at www.rirdc.gov.au
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