'The collection if particularly useful for those already well acquainted with Australian history and its individual institutions since it offers a variety of alternative perspectives for understanding their developments and impacts. It is also useful for those with interests in the specific chapter topics since the authors engage in lively fashion with the themes of institutions and the empirics of Australian social life.' Journal of Public Administration

'… more than just a collection of papers tracing the historical roots of Australia's political and institutional developments; it is a critical diagnosis of events and acts that provide a reflexive, often personal, interpretation from both a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary perspective. This volume is highly recommended for clarity of analysis, wealth of references and international comparisons.' Public Choice