A History of the Askin Government 1965-1975

Abstract

This dissertation is a comprehensive evaluation of the Askin Government from 1965-1975. The thesis of the dissertation is that Askin's contribution as leader was crucial to the electoral success and longevity of the Liberal Country Party Coalition Government. As the study progressed it became clear that Askin's leadership was underpinned by his temperament and tactics. It is illustrated that Askin's successful leadership was based on his adherence to the proven political tactics often attributed to Machiavelli. His temperament also assisted his leadership aspirations and this is explained by using David Kersey's Temperament Sorter as a framework. The discrepancy between the body of political history in NSW on Labor governments and Liberal governments is addressed. There are two significant novelties presented in this dissertation. This is the first substantial study of Askin's leadership and the coalition government. After Askin's death in 1981 his Premiership was shrouded in corruption allegations that took on mythical proportions and became received wisdom. The corruption myth is dispelled by demonstrating that it was founded on unsubstantiated allegations.