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On the Wrong Track? An Analysis of the Suitability of Contracting Out for Rail Track Maintenance

Author

Listed:
  • Denniss, Richard

    (University of Newcastle)

  • Toner, Phillip

    (University of Newcastle)

Abstract

This article critically evaluates the arguments advanced to support the extension of competitive tendering (otherwise known as contracting-out) to rail track maintenance within the corporatised NSW rail industry. It is argued that the economic characteristics of track maintenance are such that focusing on short-term cost minimisation may lead to reduced efficiency from a whole-of-government and economy wide perspective. Issues of equity are also considered, particularly in relation to increases in unemployment in regional areas. It is concluded that the adoption of a wider perspective, and a wider definition of efficiency than short-term cost minimisation, substantially reduces the desirability of contracting out.!! 2 downloads: http://www.eap-journal.com.au/download.php?file=359 and http://www.eap-journal.com.au/download.php?file=360

Suggested Citation

  • Denniss, Richard & Toner, Phillip, 1999. "On the Wrong Track? An Analysis of the Suitability of Contracting Out for Rail Track Maintenance," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 29(2), pages 117-131, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecanpo:v:29:y:1999:i:2:p:117-131
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    Cited by:

    1. Phillip Toner, 2000. "Changes in Industrial Structure in the Australian Construction Industry: Causes and Implications," The Economic and Labour Relations Review, , vol. 11(2), pages 291-307, December.
    2. Phillip Toner & Roy Green & Nic Croce & Bob Mills, 2001. "No Case to Answer: Productivity Performance of the Australian Construction Industry," The Economic and Labour Relations Review, , vol. 12(1), pages 104-125, June.
    3. Phillip Toner, 2014. "Contracting out publicly funded vocational education: A transaction cost critique," The Economic and Labour Relations Review, , vol. 25(2), pages 222-239, June.

    More about this item

    Keywords

    Contracting Out; Rail;

    JEL classification:

    • L24 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Contracting Out; Joint Ventures
    • L92 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Transportation and Utilities - - - Railroads and Other Surface Transportation

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