Working Papers
The working papers collection comprises historical papers as well as current ideas and works in progress on some of the major issues and topics of our times.
Three Dimensions of Taylor Swift Power
(released 23 February 2024)
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Not since the Beatles has a musical act captured the imagination of whole cities in Australia like Taylor Swift. Moreover the performances are arguably at a level that even the most sophisticated operas or theatre would be proud of.
Selected Twitter/X Posts: September – December 2023
(released 15 January 2024)
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The first referendum influenced by social media - a modern day disaster.
Stranger from Hobart (Reprint from 1999)
(released 30 July 2023)
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"No, the real reason for our apathy is that the most interesting figures, controversies and shortcomings of Australian Federation have been edited out. Even today, or should I say, even more today, the temptation for historians and politicians is to have god and a triumphalist story of federation and Australian democracy on their side. Heaven help the black arm band historians! It’s important to be on top at the turn of a century, and in the era of the 1990s, the great temptation is to be seen as a ‘winner’ and on the side of democracy, officialdom, the legal fraternity and the big end of town."
Preying/Praying on Isolation
(released 1 June 2023)
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The ABC’s “survey” of Woorabinda opinions on “The Voice” was a classic story about the many worlds of Aboriginal life. Congratulations to the reporter Rachel McGhee for the insights and people she interviewed...
The Invincible Spirit of Australia’s Great Aboriginal Ambassador: Jimmy Little
(released 29 April 2023)
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Anyone who met or saw Jimmy Little sing was struck by his quiet, loving dignity, his unforgettable voice and stage presence. He represented something more - an invincible spirit - a famous trait of his mother's Yorta Yorta culture.
Fear Drive My Feet
(released 25 April 2023)
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Though only a handful of us were gathered at Milingimbi on ANZAC Day, the full reality hits home: more than 30 million soldiers and civilians were killed in the Pacific theater during WWII, compared with 15 million to 20 million killed in Europe.
Aboriginal voice
(released 26 March 2023)
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Changing the Australian constitution and deepening democracy
Albo in San Diego
(released 14 March 2023)
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AUKUS almost certainly means that Australia will sign and ratify the 2017 UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. It is long overdue.
Don Watson's The Passion of Private White
(released 6 February 2023)
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Reflections on the must-read book of 2023