Australia: Political Developments and Data in 2023

This entry chronicles the failed referendum on constitutional recognition of First Nations Australians via the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. The entry includes election results for the referendum, two by-elections and one subnational election. It supplies data on the Cabinet and notes changes in parliamentary composition (sex and party). It notes changes to Australia's Public Service Act, its Reserve Bank and the ongoing implementation of measures to make Parliament a safer place. The entry discusses the development of the referendum proposal, debate, consequences and reasons for its defeat. Policy issues discussed include Labor's response to the cost-of-living crisis, including housing, social welfare energy and climate transition. Issues of governance are also discussed including Royal Commission and Secretary Sackings. Finally, Australia's foreign policy, including the Australian-United Kingdom-United States alliance and Australia's relationship with the Pacific and China, are also discussed.