Australian Labor Party and Federal Politics: A Documentary Survey

by Bron Stevens

The Australian Labor Party is the oldest political party in Australia, but its history has been disappointing. First founded in New South Wales in 1891, it has held federal office for only nineteen of the seventy-six years of this century. almost always a economic catastrophe, international crisis or internal disapagreement have blighted its success. This complrehensive survey uses Labor party records, private papers and press reports to examine the party's history. The role of the federal leader, the influence of the federal conference and the power of the parliamentary caucus are considered in detail. A chronological survey examines White Australia, the influence of communists in the party and the recurring disputes over conscription. Recent evenets which culminated inthe electoral debacle of 13 December 1975 conclude the historical survey. For all interested in Australian politics, and particularly students of Australian history, this well be an invaluable work or reference.

160 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1976