This book evaluates the role and performance of the Australian parliament, and presents a compelling case for reform.

Part I. Framework of Analysis: 1. Deliberative democracy in theory; Part II. Parliament in Political Theory: 2. Theories of parliamentary power; 3. Doctrines of responsible government; 4. Devices of deliberative democracy; Part III. Parliament in Australian Practice: 5. The ends of representation; 6. The means of legislation; 7. Accountability: parliamentary principles; 8. Accountability: parliamentary practices; Part IV. Combining Theory and Practice: 9. Deliberative democracy in Australian practice.