Politics, Inequality and the Australian Welfare State After Liberalisation

Neoliberalism has transformed work, welfare, and democracy, but its impacts and future are complex. This book explores how inequality has been contested and offers opportunities for a more egalitarian order based on an ethic of care.

Format: Hardback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 03 October 2023
Publisher: Anthem Press

Neoliberalism has brought about significant transformations in the realms of work, welfare, and democracy. While its effects and future are intricate and multifaceted, it is undeniable that it has contributed to the rise of inequality. Alongside this growing disparity, social spending has also increased, with Medicare being entwined with privatization. Understanding this contradictory politics and identifying opportunities for advancing equality is crucial.

This book delves into the three primary drivers of inequality: conditionality of benefits, marketization of services, and financialization of the life course. By examining these drivers, the book sheds light on how inequality has been contested and offers insights into the building blocks of a more egalitarian order. Moreover, it presents opportunities for new models of solidarity based on an ethic of care.

Neoliberalism has reshaped the landscape of work, leading to increased flexibility and job insecurity. The gig economy, characterized by temporary and freelance work, has emerged as a dominant feature of the labor market. While this has provided some individuals with greater autonomy and flexibility, it has also resulted in lower wages, limited benefits, and reduced job security. Moreover, the concentration of wealth among a small elite has led to a decline in social mobility and increased economic inequality.

In the realm of welfare, neoliberalism has led to the privatization of social services and the reduction of government spending. While this has been argued to promote efficiency and innovation, it has also resulted in the marginalization of vulnerable populations and the erosion of social safety nets. For example, the dismantling of public healthcare systems has left many individuals without access to affordable medical care, while the privatization of social housing has led to increased homelessness and housing insecurity.

Democracy has also been impacted by neoliberalism. The concentration of power in the hands of a few has led to the erosion of democratic norms and the decline of citizen participation. The rise of corporate influence in politics has resulted in policies that prioritize the interests of corporations over the needs of the public. Moreover, the decline of public funding for education and social services has limited the ability of individuals to participate in the democratic process and to access information.

Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for advancing equality. One approach is to address the conditionality of benefits and the marketization of services. By ensuring that social services are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their income or social status, we can promote greater social mobility and reduce inequality. Moreover, by promoting public ownership and control of key sectors of the economy, we can ensure that the benefits of economic growth are shared more equitably.

Another opportunity for advancing equality is to promote greater solidarity based on an ethic of care. This involves recognizing the interdependence of individuals and communities and working towards creating a society that values care and compassion. This can involve promoting social programs that support vulnerable populations, such as healthcare, education, and housing, as well as promoting community-based initiatives that promote social cohesion and social responsibility.

In conclusion, neoliberalism has brought about significant transformations in the realms of work, welfare, and democracy. While its effects and future are complex and multifaceted, it is undeniable that it has contributed to the rise of inequality. By understanding the drivers of inequality and identifying opportunities for advancing equality, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 153 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839988400