THE BATTLE-LINES ARE DRAWN

Finally, Labor has a carbon policy.

It remains to be seen how effectively the party will be able to sell it, nevertheless, Julia Gillard's announcement on Thursday has established the terrain for the new battle-ground of politics.

RELIGION AND CULTURE

What is at the centre of our actions? What drives us and defines us as people? Is it religion, a desire for wealth, or something different?

Far from seeing the Middle East suddenly 'bursting into flames', the recent revolutions in Egypt and Tunisia (although obviously incorporating significant violent elements) have been characterised by peoples power.

This column investigates the critical element that caused the change of government in Egypt. From this startpoint the motivations of people can be understood. We are not defined by religion unless we want to be - and that's the dissapointing element of recent statements by members of the Liberal party.

AND NOW THE LIBERALS

So much has been going wrong for the government that there hasn't been much opportunity to focus on the Opposition. This column strives to redress the balance . . .

THE CHINA SYNDROME

Alas, late posting (again!),

Which is a pity because this commentary on Ross Babbage's recent analysis on China provoked a number of people within the strategic community.

LEADERSHIP, WHAT LEADERSHIP?

Australian politics is in dire straits.

Nothing is going right for Julia Gillard. Tony Abbott isn't putting forward any policies, but neither is Labor. A vacuum occupies centre stage.

ANOTHER AWARD? FOR WHAT REASON?

Julia Gillard's announced another award. The details aren't clear . . . it appears she might have gotten a little carried away by the flooding in Queensland and felt the need to suddenly announce something - but that dosn't matter.

As I suggest here, what we really need is to distinguish between those who are getting their award for doing their job and those who've done something else to contribute to the community.