Looking for the Light on the Hill

by Troy Bramston

Despite being represented in the government, the Australian Labor Party (ALP) finds itself in a predicament today. Reduced to minority government after just one term and tanking in the opinion polls, it requires a new vision. Arguing that the party's effectiveness and political purpose has been undermined by leadership anxiety and identity crisis, this book shows how the ALP can get its mojo back with fresh ideas, a new strategy, and a refreshing of its values for the modern era. Written by party insider and Rudd government advisor Troy Bramston, this account examines the ALP from the inside and outlines a series of reforms to increase party membership and boost engagement with the community and party activists.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction

289 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 31, 2011

Reviews

[Matt John · Rating 3 out of 5]

An insider's view of Australia's Labor Party, why it has gone off-track and what it needs to do to survive. Bramston mixes party history with recent events to illustrate his points.

Providing a number of recommendations, including leadership needing to be bold, courageous, and persistent, determined, with deep conviction, strategic and taking the public with you. As well as a summary of Labor's enduring values of economic and social justice, environmental sustainability, internationalism, equality of opportunity, nation-building and democratic liberalism.

Whilst informing and creating more of interest in learning more about the history of the Labor party, much of the writing is dry and can seem to be denoting self-importance, despite the constant assurances that his view is the same as many others.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really engaged by this book, it kept my attention throughout. At times I felt slightly depressed when thinking about the current situation of Labor (particularly when contrasted to some high points in history) however I think it articulates the parties situation fairly. I may not 100% agree with all of Bramston's suggestions for changes to the party but they certainly provide food for thought & I'm pleased to see someone engaging in a genuine attempt to find a way forward for Labor. I agree that something needs to change & if there was more discussion of this book within the party & the ideas it raises, then I think the party would be in a better position. Highly recommend.

[Matt C · Rating 2 out of 5]

Looking for the Light on the Hill: Modern Labor's Challenges