Bigger or Better? Australia's Population Debate

Explore Australia's population debate with 'Bigger or Better?'. This insightful book delves into the complexities surrounding Australia's growth projections, analyzing the controversial perspectives of key political figures such as Kevin Rudd, Julia Gillard, and Tony Abbott. Written by experts, this comprehensive guide examines significant misconceptions, data trends, and the socio-economic implications of population increases, including birth rates, immigration, and the challenges of an ageing demographic. Enhance your understanding of sustainable population policies and the fierce public reactions to immigration and growth rates. With 288 pages of meticulously researched content, this trade paperback serves as an essential resource for anyone engaged in discussions about Australia's future. Make informed contributions to the ongoing dialogue about whether Australia can or should embrace a larger population. Perfect for academics, students, and general readers alike, this book is an indispensable addition to your library. Order now and unlock free shipping on your purchase from Smartfox NZ, your trusted source for thought-provoking literature.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780702239090
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2012
Publisher: University of Queensland Press
Pages: 288


Description:
A comprehensive and detailed analysis of the controversial debate about Australia's population numbers. When Kevin Rudd responded to a government forecast that the Australian population could reach 36 million by 2050 by saying he believed in 'a big Australia', there was a strong public reaction. One insider said that 'the focus groups went ballistic'. Julia Gillard renamed the relevant minister's portfolio 'sustainable population', implicitly criticising pro-growth policies of previous governments. Tony Abbott vowed to 'stop the boats' if elected (thus limiting immigration), despite generally supporting a population growth agenda and clearly having no way of stopping the boats. The Murdoch press attacked both major parties, accusing them of pandering to base prejudice by discussing the social impacts of immigration or suggesting that population growth had negative environmental impacts. It urged politicians to champion what it claimed were the self-evident economic benefits of rapid population growth. The issue is clearly a political hot potato. This book clarifies the subject, as the debate has been confused by serious misconceptions. It provides an historic account of Australia's population growth and an analysis of the data. It looks at the components of the growth, such as birth rates and immigration, as well as the more recent trend of our ageing population. It also analyses the motives of different interested parties, both those who promote population growth and those who argue against it. Bigger or Better? makes the complex and controversial issues around population accessible to general readers and will contribute to public debate about this important topic.

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