Democratic Choices: Ideas and Outcomes

Democracy is a primary element in Australia s identity as a nation and in the consciousness of its citizens. But there is a mismatch between belief in democracy and confidence in political institutions. The Democratic Choices project will develop a unique approach to sifting and identifying the core values of Australian democracy. It will show how these values have shaped Australian institutions, and how early choices can close off other options or the change needed to sustain those values. It will be a major contribution to international literature on the relationship between ideas, institutions and outcomes.