2020 Summit analysed

The Prime Minster's string of PR coups just seems to get longer, even if the jury is still out the potential damage of his China-Tibet comments. But as Barrie Cassidy has written, the 2020 Summit this weekend has potential to produce something more than just continuing good polls. If the carefully orchestrated event delivers what has been promised, the Rudd Government will be announcing policy a dangerously long way out from the next election.

Alistair Drysale writes that the summit has demonstrated something that many have suspected for a while, Kevin Rudd is writing a new rule book on how he operates as the Prime Minister. He adds that the summit has allowed the ubiquitous Rudd to cement his reputation as smart and busy operator, while at the same time sidelining the opposition from the discussions.

Some say a lot of hot air has been created about climate change at yesterday's session on sustainability. Robert Gottleibsen says the 2020 Summit offers the government a great opportunity to get serious about carbon containment, but the only way to make progress is to produce a clear set of targets.

Geoff Rankin also adds his two cents on climate change, saying that the 2020 Summit will be an ideal venue to discuss the impact of climate initiatives on taxation policy.

If you're not joining the business luminaries in Canberra for the Summit, join The Conversation to let us know what ideas you'd table – or whether you think the Summit can achieve anything at all. You can read background briefing papers, lists of participants and session agendas at the Government's 2020 web site. Below are the 10 topics that will be on the table this weekend – our commentators will give their reaction to the best ideas discussed as they emerge.

Productivity
Education, skills, training, science and innovation

Australian Economy
The future of the Australian economy

Sustainability and Climate Change
Population, sustainability, climate change and water

Rural Australia
Future directions for rural industries and rural communities

Health
A long-term national health strategy – including the challenges of preventative health, workforce planning and the ageing population

Communities and Families
Strengthening communities, supporting families and social inclusion

Indigenous Australia
Options for the future of Indigenous Australia

Creative Australia
Towards a creative Australia: the future of the arts, film and design

Australian Governance
The future of Australian governance: renewed democracy, a more open government (including the role of the media), the structure of the Federation and the rights and responsibilities of citizens

Australia's Future in the World
Australia's future security and prosperity in a rapidly changing region and world.