Australia's COVID-19 public budgeting response: the straitjacket of neoliberalism. Issue 5 (20th August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Andrew, Jane; Baker, Max; Guthrie, James; Martin-Sardesai, Ann
• Is Part Of: Journal of public budgeting, accounting & financial management. Volume 32:Issue 5(2020)
• Page Start: 759
• Page End: 770
• Publication Date: 2020-08-20
• Subjects: Public budgets -- COVID-19 -- Pandemic -- Australia government -- Neoliberalism -- Fiscal; Finance, Public -- Periodicals; Finance, Public -- Accounting -- Periodicals; Budget -- Periodicals; Budget; Finance, Public; Finance, Public -- Accounting; Periodicals; 336
• DOI: 10.1108/JPBAFM-07-2020-0096
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1096-3367

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This paper explores how neoliberalism restrains the ability of governments to respond to crises through budgetary action. It examines the immediate budgetary responses to the COVID-19 pandemic by the Australian government and explores how the conditions created by prior neoliberal policies have limited these responses. Design/methodology/approach: A review and examination of the prior literature on public budgeting and new public management are provided. The idea of a "neoliberal straitjacket" is used to frame the current budgetary and economic situation in Australia. Findings: The paper examines the chronology of Australia's budgetary responses to the economic and health crisis created by COVID-19. These responses have taken the form of tax breaks and a temporary payment scheme for individuals made unemployed by the pandemic. Practical implications: The insights gained from this paper may help with future policy developments and promote future research on similar crises. Originality/value: The analysis of Australia's policies in dealing with the pandemic may offer insights for other countries struggling to cope with the fiscal consequences of COVID-19.