We Should Be So Lucky: Why the Australian Way Works

by Andrew Low

We Should Be So Lucky, the first book to be released under the Prospect Editions imprint, delves into the secrets behind Australia's remarkable success and why its relative prosperity and good living is not just luck.

Australia is often referred to as the 'Lucky Country' where good fortune has delivered people greater wealth, longer lives and better healthcare. But as Andrew argues, the country's relative prosperity and longevity is not just luck – it stems from a unique blend of political, social and economic institutions and values.

Drawing on his vast experience in global business and finance and his deep connection to Australia, Andrew offers a compelling analysis of how the Australian Way works and why it matters. The book is both a celebration of what Australia has achieved and a guide for other democracies seeking solutions to their own challenges.

‘A most interesting and positive analysis.’ John Howard, former prime minister of Australia

‘What makes Australia so special, and what we need to guard against.’ Lucy Hughes Turnbull, former lord mayor of Sydney

‘[A] brilliantly researched analysis’ Bob Carr, former Australian foreign minister and premier of NSW

‘An insightful view of Australia’s past successes. More importantly, a way forward for western democracies in the challenging era ahead’ Nick Greiner, former premier of NSW and Australian consul-general New York

297 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2025

Reviews

[Kei Yamaguchi · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a newcomer to Australia, the book was quite informative and full of datapoints to understand how Australia flourished in the past decades. I feel like I have a better understanding and appreciation for how the country works now.

[Andrew Howes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book to be engaging and informative. Andrew Low pulls together an impressive array of facts, statistics and survey results that help clarify what uniquely makes Australians Australian and Australia, Australia.

This book definitely reinforced my existing optimistic, iterative improvement mindset, so I didn’t find myself critically analysing as much as I probably should have.

If I were to be a bit more critical, I feel like this book has a bit of a political launch vibe to it (would not be surprised if Low is considering a return to Australia and a hop on the political circuit) and like many political takes, I thought it could have had some stronger evidence behind the recommendations. Low makes some good points about education standards slipping and productivity falling but doesn’t provide a lot of answers on fixing those issues. The one I remember most is that we risk rushing the green energy transition risks, which he doesn’t provide much evidence to back up.

Overall though, this book does a great job of highlighting the things Australia is getting right, and the fact that Australians don’t think about how great our institutions are. There are absolutely lessons the rest of the world can take from Australia and some good lessons we’d do well to take on from the rest of the world.

[Eddie Lees · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has numerous motivating attributes that distinguish it from others in the same genre.
First, it clips along at a good pace; there’s not a boring sentence in its entire span.
Second, it is uplifting at a time when, let’s face it, downfacing has become widespread.
Third, it is packed full of positive messages for every Australian: native-born, immigrant, or tourist.
Fourth, it’s message is, “Come on, there’s more to do … let’s get on with it!” Sound thinking.
Fifth, it deserves a place on the shelf (real or digital) of every thinking resident and ex-pat.
Today I will buy copies for those I most admire.
This is the best book of its type I have read in the last twenty years.
Huge thanks to the author, about whom I knew nothing until reading this.
Thank you, Mr Low.

[Greg · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly excellent book. A book that is very optimistic about the future of Australians but also acknowledges that we have faults which could stop us teaching our full potential.

The author compares and contrasts his book with Donald Horne's The Lucky Country which was published back in 1964. in some ways this book looks like an update on Horne's book which is not a bad thing.

His analysis of Australians is spot on.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this. Non fiction account of where Australia had come from, its current status and future opportunities. Covers various facets of life in Australia. Thank you to the author. Thank you to #netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating read. It's given me a deeper appreciation of being Australian. And helped me recognise why this is such a great place to live.