The Professionals - Stephen Mills

In The Professionals, Stephen Mills takes a close look at the behind-the-scenes workings of Australian politics, particularly focusing on the individuals who operate away from the public eye—those shaping public opinion, crafting political narratives, and steering the decision-making processes of elected leaders. The book looks at political staffers, consultants, and media professionals who now play a key role in influencing policy and guiding the political agendas of Australia’s leaders.

Mills examines how this new "professional" political class has emerged, drawing parallels to similar developments in other Western democracies. The political landscape has shifted from one that was once dominated by grassroots political movements and ideological campaigns to one that is driven by strategic communication, media manipulation, and image control. Politicians and their advisors are no longer just focused on policy, but on how to sell those policies to the public.

The book also delves into the consequences of this shift, exploring how it has impacted the way politics is conducted in Australia. Mills reflects on the erosion of traditional political values, such as loyalty and integrity, in favor of an increasingly cynical approach to governing. He highlights examples of key political moments, scandals, and election campaigns where the professional political class played a pivotal role in shaping public perception.

While the book is a critique of the political system, it also offers insights into how voters can better understand the manipulation of information and the role of media in modern politics. Mills argues that the rise of the political professional class has created a divide between politicians and the public, and that transparency and a return to grassroots engagement are essential for restoring trust in the political process.