Productivity Commission defends GST report amid Western Australia premier's criticism
Source Summary
Angela Jackson, commissioner of the Productivity Commission, stated the body stands by its interim GST report, which concluded the deal with Western Australia was costly and should be reversed. Western Australia premier Roger Cook criticized the report, calling east coast officials "clowns" and warning changes would cost the state A$6 billion. Jackson said the commission welcomes debate but rejected attacks on its integrity, emphasizing its independence from political influence.
Why it matters
The Productivity Commission's defense of its GST report reflects a broader debate over fiscal federalism in Australia and the independence of policy institutions from political pressure.
