The Hollow State

The Hollow State: Power Without Purpose in Australian Politics is a scathing analysis of how Australia’s political system has been drained of conviction, competence and purpose. Drawing on decades of political commentary, analysis and insider knowledge, Peter van Onselen offers a compelling account of how managerialism, personality cults, media decline and institutional erosion have hollowed out Australian democracy.

From the rise of spin over substance to the collapse of internal party democracy, this book exposes the decay of meaningful governance and the triumph of tactics over strategy.

With forensic insight and unapologetic critique, The Hollow State captures the frustrations of voters, the failure of elites and the shrinking space for serious policy reform.