What federal politicians should do now?

The hung federal parliament presents both weaknesses and opportunities.

Most commentators tend to argue that it means weak government because of the need a government has to compromise to the demands from the handful of independents and the Greens who hold the balance of power.

That however, is not necessarily a bad thing for the public, even though it may not be good for the government. The reason is that such a situation can certainly reduce the possibility of big government mistakes and wastes, such as those shown in the past three years. And that is an unambiguously good thing.

Further, only a hung parliament has the best opportunity to reform government and the parliament for the good of the nation as opposed to the benefits of the government itself.

I would like to see the following reforms undertaken by the current parliament, even though the Greens may present a serious problem because its position as the balance of power in the senate.

1. Reform election system to a fixed term to to make it fairer to all parties and to reduce the costs to the public and taxpayers of frequent elections.

2. Reform federal relations to make the federation structure clearer in terms of responsibilities and power.

3. Strengthen government accountability.

4. Independent assessments/evaluations of policies. An independent policy assessment organisation/office under the parliament, and more use of independent and public institutions.

5. Public services should be at arm's length from the government of the day.

6. Population growth and productivity study.

7. Make most sensible changes to NBN plan.

8. Tax and welfare reforms based on an independent review based on the Henry review, but including the GST in it.

9. A revenue neutral carbon tax on emissions, with the revenue proceeds going to every residents on an equal per capita basis to change emission prices. If there is little action from the international community, an equalisation carbon tax on imports and refund for exports could be imposed so trade is not distorted. That is the most efficient and effective way to do it.