Q&A (2008) : 14x15

With Australia’s borders likely to remain closed until mid-2022, senior Government ministers are standing by the decision to keep the doors shut, despite internal party backlash. What will extended border closures mean for the country’s productivity? Despite the economy showing strong signs of recovery, the budget papers forecast a decade of deficits and debt, set to peak at almost $1 trillion in 2025. Will Australia ever see a surplus again? And as the situation escalates between Israelis and Palestinians on the Gaza strip, the panel discuss the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Middle East. Joining Hamish for this discussion are: Luke McGregor, comedian, writer and actor; Barnaby Joyce, Nationals Member for New England; Gabriela D'Souza, Senior Economist, Committee for Economic Development of Australia; Tony Burke, Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations; and Lisa Jackson Pulver, Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Sydney.