From the Archives, 2000: Howard bets future on GST We’re sorry, this service is currently unavailable. Please try again later. Dismiss By Michael Gordon and Phillip Hudson June 30, 2021 — 2.00pm Normal text size PM bets future on GST Prime Minister John Howard declared yesterday he had put his “head on the block” to secure tax reform, signalling he will wear the blame if the system introduced today fails to deliver a stronger and fairer nation. After coming to a compromise agreement on the GST with the Australian Democrats, John Howard and Peter Costello hold a media conference. Credit:Peake In an 11th-hour media blitz, Mr Howard predicted that voters would deliver a positive verdict on the GST by Christmas, effectively conceding that his leadership was on the line.