Prime Minister Tony Abbott's much-touted "first 100 days of action" for his "no surprises, no excuses" government will run out on Boxing Day. As a result the Coalition has its work cut out in the run-up to Christmas. In the 84 days since Abbott and his cabinet were sworn in, they have struggled to find a positive vision for the nation, let alone explain it.

When decisions have been made, many have been underwhelming, confusing or embarrassing. For all the rhetoric about the dire state of the federal budget and the evils of debt, Australia now has no debt ceiling thanks to a deal between Treasurer Joe Hockey and the Greens. It was the correct decision but getting there betrayed an air of hypocrisy.

Tony Abbott and his cabinet are struggling to find a core vision for Australia. Credit:Andrew Meares

The same can be said about the 11th-hour reconversion to a stripped-back, unclear version of the Gonski reforms. At least they were decisions.

On other pressing problems there has been a worrying tendency towards misplaced masterful inaction. Prevarication is dogging the necessary decision to keep Qantas in local hands. If Abbott accepts that the national carrier is a special case requiring support, as the Herald does, he must say so now. If not, he must have the courage to explain why and manage the consequences.