Sister State Agreements - Developing a Screening Grid to Aid Public Sector Management in Improving Performance Outcomes

Abstract

AbstractAustralia is highly dependent on imports of products and services. The cost of these has to be serviced by exports to achieve a balance of trade. Unfortunately in most years the result is a deficit. Contemporary international trade theory indicates the need for a State government and private industry nexus to initiate and enhance trade outcomes. One of the key aspects of this nexus is the role of Sister State Agreements. However these high level government-to-government agreements are not subject to extensive research. This paper explores the Sister State Agreements of Queensland by designing a screening grid map using two axes each a construct of multiple variables. The map is designed with a view to examining how public sector management can advance the effectiveness of trade outcomes.Note: A conference working paper based on this article was presented at the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Management 2001 conference.