The first Australian Political Economy Conference was held in Sydney, June 18-20. With the capitalist world in the mess its in at the moment, in the economy, in environmental issues, in sexism, in racism.... There was considerable interest.,

Considerable interest. The organisers expected 600 to attend. 1500 turned up. Predominently students, but many teachers and trade unionists of varying shades of political opinion (unless you believe Truth).

Unlike most academic conferences, there was a strong realisation of the need to relate theory to political practice. Not just to understand the world but to change it, as the sage said.

Most of the experience spoken of was Australia, but there are strong links to New Zealand. Both of our countries are outposts of the capitalist system, and are seeing concern over similar problems. The analysis suggested are of much help to the understanding of New Zealand society.