A collection of 12 short analyses examining some of the most pressing issues and policy questions facing the 48th Parliament. Each article gives a high-level perspective of significant public policy issues, covering background, context and legislative history, as well as some of the policy and legislative directions raised in the public debate.

This report describes results from a co-designed outcome evaluation of a local decision-making initiative for Aboriginal communities in New South Wales. The key finding is that it is a valuable policy initiative worth strengthening, with real potential to deliver change. The initiative is a useful step towards the devolution of decision making to communities.

This paper calls on the next federal government to continue to take steps to ensure the full and equitable participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the economic, social and cultural life of Australia. It sets out six foundational actions to set a course towards a reconciled nation that benefits all Australians.

This framework outlines actionable steps that government staff can take to effectively plan, engage, and partner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders. The framework covers key concepts, when and how to engage, building trust and cultural safety.

This report finds that governments' reluctance to properly engage in genuine partnership around economic development has contributed to poorer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and businesses. It calls for greater community control, stronger partnerships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, and reforms to employment programs to make them culturally safe and effective.