Author Description

Emphasizing the importance of asking the right questions, this book approaches policy by developing a framework that integrates the analysis of economic efficiency with the analysis of public choice. Using Australia as an example, it teaches the principles of good policy-making, how economists evaluate the policy process, and how to apply these principles. Part I provides a theoretical and empirical context for agricultural and resource policy in Australia. It includes a detailed description of the Australian institutions that make agricultural and resource policy. Parts II and III cover issues particular to the agricultural and resource sector: input markets, product markets and structural change. Part IV reviews the interaction of the agricultural and resources sector with the rest of the economy and discusses the importance for agriculture of policies outside the sector. This text is invaluable for students studying policy analysis in agriculture, economics, commerce, and business courses, and an important reference for anyone interested in agriculture and natural resources.