This policy brief responds to increasing demand for a future generations policy with an overview of measures and models that prioritise intergenerational equity. 

It argues that short-termism in Australian policy hinders our ability to address long-term challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and an ageing population, advocating for policies that embed intergenerational fairness and long-term thinking into governance framework.

The brief explores international approaches to future generations policy and highlights Australia’s existing policy building blocks, including Indigenous heritage, the Australian Commission for the Future, the Intergenerational Report, and the 'Measuring What Matters' wellbeing framework.

Key findings

• 97% of Australians believe policies should consider future generations' interests.
• 81% believe that politicians think too short-term.
• 79% support the establishment of a Commissioner for Future Generations (or a similar body) to safeguard intergenerational justice in policy-making.
• 59 National constitutions around the world reference the need to protect future generations.

Recommendations

1. Legislate a Wellbeing of Future Generations Act in the Federal Parliament.
2. Establish an independent statutory Commissioner for Future Generations.
3. Mandate the launch of a National Conversation on Future Generations and ongoing public engagement, engaging the public as active participants in the co-creation and evolution of the vision.