Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd marked his first 100 days in office by releasing a booklet highlighting his accomplishments and addressing critics who claim there has been little change since he assumed power. The centre-left Labor Party, led by Rudd, won the elections 97 days ago on November 24, 2007, ending almost 12 years of conservative rule. Despite criticisms that Rudd's government has focused on establishing committees, reviews, and inquiries rather than making firm decisions, newspapers have begun reporting on his first 100 days in office. Sydney Morning Herald Political Correspondent Phillip Coorey expressed concern over the excessive use of committees by Rudd's government in a recent article. Rudd's 55-page book highlights his decision to ratify the Kyoto Protocol, deploy extra troops to East Timor, and plan to withdraw Australian combat forces from Iraq as significant accomplishments. However, Rudd emphasized that the most significant change during his tenure was the government's apology to Aborigines for past mistreatment. He stated that the apology was a valuable and lasting contribution to the nation. Critics have noted that Rudd has established numerous committees and inquiries since taking office, with some reports citing as many as 47 committees and a promise of 50 more during his election campaign. In response, Rudd defended his actions by pointing out that the previous conservative government had initiated 495 inquiries and reviews in just one year. Rudd stated that it is a responsible step for a new government to identify areas that require review for future direction. Nick Economou, a political analyst from Monash University in Melbourne, praised Rudd for his initial actions in government, noting that he sought national consensus for his agenda. Economou believes Rudd is performing well, particularly in his handling of the apology issue. He also commented that even if Rudd were to be removed from office tomorrow, he has already made a significant mark in Australian political history. He stated that Rudd's interest in committees and reviews, as well as his upcoming ideas summit involving 1,000 people in April, were all aimed at assisting the government in implementing its plans. He mentioned that Rudd has a clear agenda in mind but is open to involving others in the process, as he values consensus and wants to find the right path to achieve his goals.