Ross Gittins is economics editor of the SMH and an economic columnist for The Age. His books include Gittins' Guide to Economics, Gittinomics and The Happy Economist.
There's a long history of politicians professing to be terribly concerned about "the cost of living" and nothing good ever comes of it. It's always about saying things to keep or win your vote and rarely about doing anything real – let alone sensible – about prices.
These days, the two sides of politics are quietly busy getting issues lined up in a way that gives them the advantage in that election.
The old joke says the questions in economics exams don't change from year to year, but the answers do. Welcome to the economics of energy and climate change, which has changed a lot without many people noticing - including Malcolm Turnbull and his climate-change denying mates.
Reserve Bank chief gently reproves Turnbull's failings.
This year should see the end of the economy's protracted 'transition' back to business as usual. You beaut.
The main trick magicians use is to direct the audience's attention away from the place where they're doing their sleight-of-hand. That's what Malcom Turnbull's up to.
With Malcolm Turnbull desperate to keep burning coal for electricity, just how important is the mining industry to our economy?
With Our Glad Berejiklian - the archetypal girl who works harder than the boys - replacing pin-up boy Mike Baird as premier of NSW, should the citizens of other states be envious? Don't be too sure.
It's the last (unofficial) holiday weekend of summer before the new year really gets down to business on Monday. So let's have some fun. Try yourself on this simple quiz.
Human contact is an important part of health and our prosperity.
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