The Productivity Commission has faced sharp political criticism after its report labeled Western Australia’s GST agreement a costly error, provoking a heated backlash and accusations targeting the body’s credibility. Commissioner Angela Jackson defended the findings, calling unfounded attacks on the commission’s integrity "unacceptable" while emphasizing its openness to constructive feedback. The report’s blunt assessment has reignited tensions over state funding arrangements, with federal leaders resisting calls for reform. As the debate intensifies, the commission stands by its role as an independent economic authority amid growing political scrutiny.
Commissioner Angela Jackson also said it was ‘disappointing’ that Anthony Albanese had ruled out changes to Western Australia’s GST arrangementsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe Productivity Commission has condemned attacks on its integrity as “unacceptable” after its scathing assessment of Western Australia’s sweetheart GST deal as a costly mistake sparked a fierce political backlash and name-calling.Angela Jackson, a productivity commissioner and co-author of the report, said the country’s leading independent economic advisory body welcomed criticism and comments on its work. Continue reading...
