Commonwealth - State relations: now, and in the future

The Hon. John Brumby, MP

Tuesday 6 February 2007, 6.00 pm

Finkel Lecture Theatre
John Curtin School of Medical Research
ANU, Canberra

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Relations between the Commonwealth and State governments are always a source of tension in a federal system. The relationship can wax and wane, from confrontation and friction to cooperation and collaboration.

The Victorian Treasurer John Brumby has been a key driver of the Commonwealth and State policy agenda in areas of education and health infrastructure, innovation and financial relations. In last year’s Australian Financial Review Magazine Power issue, he was ranked fifth in the Covert Power List and described as a ‘guardian of economic rectitude’. He is no stranger in Canberra as he served as a Federal MP from 1983 to 1990.

In particular, Mr Brumby has led the wave for a new National Reform Agenda based on detailed research and policy analysis presented to COAG. His efforts in innovation infrastructure and desire to reform intergovernmental financial relations puts him in a unique position to discuss the position of Commonwealth - State relations, now and in the future.

The Hon. John Brumby, MP The Hon. John Brumby MP is currently the longest serving Treasurer of Victoria, and has served in Federal Parliament from 1983 to 1990. He is the senior economic Minister in the Victorian Government holding the offices of Treasurer, Minister for Regional and Rural Development, and Minister for Innovation. Mr Brumby has been a member of the Parliament of Victoria since 1993. He was the Leader of the Opposition for almost six years, overseeing the rebuilding of the ALP and the development of new policies to revive and reinvigorate country Victoria.