Big Society and Australia: How the UK Government is dismantling the state and what it means for Australia

Abstract

It is just over two years since David Cameron was elected as British Prime Minister. Since his election, Cameron has implemented a range of policy changes that are considered to have 'redefined the role of the state' and, correspondingly, the roles of the private and community sectors. These 'Big Society' changes were first articulated by Phillip Blond, director of UK think tank ResPublica in his 2010 book 'Red Tory'. Blond drew on ideas, assumptions, values and policies that have previously been associated with the 'Third Way', including a commitment to a smaller state and an expanded role for the community sector. Cameron drew on Blond's ideas in the context of major cuts to public spending, and many critics view 'Big Society' as a new way of presenting a longstanding neoliberal preference for shrinking government through budget cuts, privatisation and outsourcing. The UK's 'Big Society' changes have certainly enabled an expanded role for corporations in the provision of public services. ... This report presents a comprehensive analysis of the UK's 'Big Society' policies and programs and examines their potential impact if adopted and implemented in Australia. It is intended to contribute to an informed debate about the merits of 'small government' ideologies and policies that often receive less than critical media and political commentary here.