This report illustrates the substantial direct costs governments incur by failing to address the root causes of social and environmental issues. The report uses three examples – childhood poverty, preventable disease and chemical contamination – to illustrate the extent of avoidable spending, and make the fiscal case for tackling issues as early as possible.

With the release of its Measuring What Matters framework the Australian Government has taken the first steps to embedding wellbeing in policy and decision-making. Critical to its success will be gaining the perspectives and buy-in of the Australian public. This paper provides the foundations to support the government and community sector to embark on a...