Policy and demographics are changing the character of Australia’s social safety net. Cash transfers like JobSeeker and Family Tax Benefit are shrinking. Meanwhile, ‘in-kind’ transfers like government-subsidised education, disability and health care are increasing quickly. This paper uses survey microdata to detail how rising in-kind transfers are changing who receives government support.

The relationship between budget offices and line ministries is evolving across OECD countries. Effective budgeting now depends on strong internal finance functions within line ministries, collaborative engagement across the budget cycle, and sustained investment in skills and systems. This paper discusses how this partnership can be strengthened to ensure budgeting supports fiscal sustainability.

This report examines the role of charities operated solely by volunteers which comprise 43% of Australia’s sector. While mostly small, volunteer-run charities generated $4.3 billion and deliver services nationwide. The report finds volunteer numbers are increasing after years of decline though challenges remain, including limited government funding and regulatory pressures.

An investigation into the remediation of income support cancellations and oversight of decisions made by employment service providers affecting job seekers in the Targeted Compliance Framework. This report found the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations’ oversight of decisions by providers is poor and lacking in transparency. It provides eight recommendations and identifies lessons for...

The Action Planning Tool supports Australian organisations to reduce their gender pay gap. It uses organisational data to identify gender pay gap 'hot spots' and provide a targeted action plan specific to the organisation. This evaluation assesses the effectiveness of the tool in building confidence, lifting knowledge and supporting organisations to take action.