How do policy workers actually use academic research and advice? While there are several recent studies regarding this question from other Westminster jurisdictions, similar academic studies have been rare in New Zealand. So far, most of the local research in this field has been conducted by the prime minister’s chief science advisor and the Office...

We live in an information rich age, our education levels have increased dramatically over the last few decades, so why hasn’t this led to a similar improvement in the quality of public debate? Barry Jones considers this paradox and offers his thoughts on how the discourse can be improved. Highlights of Evidence, opinion, interest: The...

This essay collection includes the ideas of 39 leading thinkers, policy makers and activists. The essays touch on a wide range of topics, including the public interest in asylum seeker policy, Indigenous futures, the environment, education and inequality. They also look at what is ailing in Australian democracy and suggest some people-focused remedies.

The Mapping the Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences in Australia report charts Australia’s current capabilities in the humanities, arts and social sciences (HASS) and identifies gaps and opportunities for the future by developing a comprehensive understanding of student enrolment trends, and teaching and research activity and potential. The report was co-funded by the Australian Academy...

A Federation for the 21st Century examines: