Workchoices : ruling class mobilisation in contemporary Australia

This paper is an examination of elite forces in Australia and the processes by which they exercise influence over public policy. Gramscian notions of hegemony will be employed as a theoretical lens to view contemporary episodes in capital history. Specifically, the paper will argue that an Australian ruling class has created a social environment in which its aims become those of the state. Essentially, using a Gramscian framework, this paper will explore ruling class hegemony in the realm of federal government policy. A general discussion of the historical rise of neoliberalism in Australia is followed by an analysis of the basis of ruling class power. The aim here is to establish a link between neoliberal economic reforms and ruling class power. In essence, the rise of neoliberalism has accommodated ruling class hegemony. In accordance with R. W. Connell's idea of ‘ruling class mobilisation', the paper argues that recent changes in industrial relations can be perceived as examples of contemporary ruling class mobilisation. The WorkChoices reforms legislated by the Howard coalition government are portrayed as one manifestation of ruling class hegemony. Moreover, the Business Council of Australia will be examined in relation to the controversial WorkChoices legislation. The paper argues that the Business Council is an accurate indicator of ruling class motives due to its exclusive membership. Self admittedly, the Business Council represents the wealthiest companies in Australia. Therefore, the paper argues that the policy agenda of the Business Council is indicative of ruling class objectives. In this context, the paper essentially argues that an elite economic class indirectly rules politically.