Coalition learns to protect its support base

Article Abstract:

Former Prime Minister Paul Keating's fear campaign against Coalition leader John Hewson's GST and Medicare plans backfired because it eliminated a vital group of older women who constitute 20% of the electorate. However, John Howard changed the policy by exempting all pensioners and residents from the new income-tested fees. He further guaranteed a minimum $15,000 to even the wealthiest of nursing home residents.

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One Nation could tip the scales

Article Abstract:

The One Nation party could be a decisive factor in the Oct 1998 Australian elections. The Labor Party has spent much of its campaign energy on the merits of the goods and services tax, while the Coalition has focused on the risks of Labor's approach to fiscal policy. The 7% of votes most polls credit to One Nation could be enough to give Labor a significant majority.

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Queensland result blessing in disguise for Howard

Article Abstract:

The Queensland election settled what the various state divisions of the Liberal Party will do with One Nation on their voting guides. Alarm over India's and Pakistan's nuclear tests has not prompted marches, sit-ins, or symbolic gestures. Religion is a driving force in nationalism in the countries. The nuclear missiles are named after Islamic and Hindu heroes.

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