Policy formulation in Australian government: Vertical and horizontal axes

Studies of the policy process in Australia have focused on particular insti tutions or decisions rather than on its overarching properties. One such pr operty is the vertical and horizontal 'axes' of policy-making, The former c omprises hierarchical relationships whereas the latter comprise relationshi ps of bargaining, negotiation and persuasion, Vertical axes enable governme nts to take and enforce technically rational decisions in pursuit of consis tent goals whereas horizontal axes permit governments to make broadly-based decisions that have group assent and electoral support, Vertical axes have strengthened in recent years and have brought increased technical rational ity and consistency. This has come at a cost of limiting of the scape of po litical debate and a loss of electoral support for government though.