Govts and no future foresight (see, even I recognise there are problems with governments) - what typically counts to them (left, middle, or right) is the current and next election term only. Okay - call them hidden interests - maybe so - it boils down to laziness and greed - pure and simple.
A bit of serious infrastructure planning and we would be a far more vibrant place and back to the envy of the world.
I think it should be compulsary for Govts to focus a certain amount of time/money on long term future planning. Reckon there should be an overarching and key Future Australia portfolio federally that also crosses all other depts - this concept could also be replicated on a State and even Local level.
And going beyond infrastructure, look at what our governments do to encourage Scientific discovery in Australia - ZERO! Science/technology is potentially a never ending resource and most countries completely ignore the possibilities. Give us the tax breaks to invest in local Science/Biotech - encourage our best brains to stay here and attract immigrants with great brains to come here.
Look at the ongoing debate about renewable energy - here we are in the 21st century and we are still unable to economically harness renewable energy. However, fully electric cars are being sold right now - Nissan LEAF, Mistubishi I-MIEV, Chevy/Holden Volt. Infrastructure is slowly following - look at http://www.betterplace.com.au/drivers/charge-spot-locations.html
Rambling a bit, but way too many issues here to focus on - my bugbear.
