Field experiments motivated by behavioural economics to understand prosocial behaviour and improve blood supply. Blood and plasma shortages are common in most countries; for example, in 2005 Australia imported nearly 30% of the plasma it used. This project will develop and test in the field several policies to improve Australia's blood supply. The policies will build on robust behaviours observed in economic experiments, but that have generally not been tested outside the lab. The policies inclu ....Field experiments motivated by behavioural economics to understand prosocial behaviour and improve blood supply. Blood and plasma shortages are common in most countries; for example, in 2005 Australia imported nearly 30% of the plasma it used. This project will develop and test in the field several policies to improve Australia's blood supply. The policies will build on robust behaviours observed in economic experiments, but that have generally not been tested outside the lab. The policies include non-binding commitments, giving gifts and narrowing the perceived distance between blood donors and recipients. This project offers Australia many potential benefits including greater economic efficiency to supply blood and plasma, fewer shortages, and consequently improved health services, and greater recognition as a pioneer in blood donor supply methods.Read moreRead less
Biosecurity or Trade Barrier? The Economic Costs of Quarantine. Agricultural, fishing and forestry groups are united in supporting strict biosecurity measures, such as quarantine, in order to prevent any possibility of the importation of diseases. However, the importation of certain products from "diseased" countries does not necessarily mean that the disease will also be imported, and even if imported it may not result in the destruction of the local industry. The "diseased" countries obviousl ....Biosecurity or Trade Barrier? The Economic Costs of Quarantine. Agricultural, fishing and forestry groups are united in supporting strict biosecurity measures, such as quarantine, in order to prevent any possibility of the importation of diseases. However, the importation of certain products from "diseased" countries does not necessarily mean that the disease will also be imported, and even if imported it may not result in the destruction of the local industry. The "diseased" countries obviously remain competitive if they are able to export the products. Foreign quarantine restrictions are restricting Australia's access to international markets. The costs to consumers of the current zero-tolerance policy has not been quantified. The costs may indeed exceed the benefit.Read moreRead less