The Australian
...The government also needs to follow a few other simple rules.
First it has to keep its promises. The try-on over Gonski education funding, which fell into the "what on earth were they thinking" category, showed once again how swiftly and how severely voters punish politicians for even looking like reneging on commitments.
This is where care needs to be taken, especially with the National Disability Insurance Scheme, although with their predecessor's dismal record on program delivery the Abbott government is right to keep a sharp eye on costs.
Second, it has to ensure proper cabinet processes are observed. The number of mistakes increase when the circle of advice narrows. If he doesn't know it by now, Abbott should realise there is a well of resentment among ministers who feel isolated or slighted. He has to address it.
Third, it has to keep talking. If they are to support tough measures, people need to know what is happening and why. Accept 80 per cent of the media will always be biased against conservatives (with Network Ten news consistently the most egregious) and find ways to work around or through it.
Fourth, having succeeded, beyond their wildest dreams, in smashing expectations it is now vital they be exceeded.
The first 100 days have been disappointing. On the day he presented his own report card, Abbott looked tired and sounded flat. It was like he was asking voters to believe something he was having trouble believing himself.
