Economic, political and diplomatic decline

Australia under the Howard government was riding high, a nation almost uniquely debt-free, well governed, behind secure borders and respected internationally.

Not only were we among the top ten countries in the internationally respected Legatum Prosperity Index; we were Number Two.

More than a ranking in Gross Domestic Product per capita, this assessment came from achievements through nine pillars, including the economy, health, education, governance, and freedom, indicating a pathway to prosperity.