Chris--You have nailed the problem of cherry picking one aspect of tax reform and then watering it down when the pressure is on. We need a comprehensive review of our whole tax system and mining taxes in particular. When dealing with the States it seems basic to make sure they are not worse of and sweeten the pot with some growth. The crazy patchwork of taxes, royalties and exceptions to the rules, is a feast for accountants and lawyers with us mugs kept in the dark. I too am skeptical of "opinion" in the Oz which always has an agenda. But they presumably also report "facts" which can be used as reliable data. Good piece. SteveofRobbo

Thanks Steve,

Yes, newspapers can be good source for day-to-day summary of events.

That is why i used a variety of them (The Aust, the WA, SMH, CourierMail). That way i got a national perspective, and some of the sentiment from WA and QLD, two states more dependent on mining.

I see Alan Austin is quoting himself again. Apparently he is the only reliable source of information.

I see that the miners are busy accumulating MRRT credits for state royalties, and the chances of paying any tax this year is close to zero.