Research
At the Melbourne School of Government, our research examines the implications of economic, legal, social, political and cultural trends for the content and conduct of public policy. We’re proud to offer a research program that aims to improve the design, development and impact of public policy both nationally and internationally.
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Regulation and Design
Governance and regulatory frameworks have an ever-increasing impact on effective government delivery. The expansion of these functions to community organisations, corporations, and industry associations, rather than just public officials, has fuelled the need for a better understanding of this space.
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Renewing Democracy
Liberal democracy is facing challenges worldwide, as populism, illiberalism, and authoritarianism gains ground and citizens are increasingly disconnected and disenchanted. Our globally leading research explores how public and private actors can and should respond, and the implications for how we think about issues such as political trust, civil liberties, meaningful representation, and alternative forms of governance and engagement in public life.
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Troubling Policy
The School fosters world-leading expertise in a number of key policy domains relevant to government. We focus on fields that draw on our interdisciplinary knowledge and have significant value to public sector leaders. In doing this, we critically examine issues that have troubled policymakers and require multifaceted policy solutions.
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Social Procurement
Social procurement policies and initiatives are on the increase across all levels of government in Australia. As our government departments and agencies are the largest purchasers of goods, services and construction projects in Australia, the potential for public expenditure to improve social and economic outcomes through social procurement is extremely significant.
Governing During Crises
How does government respond to crises? We are developing understanding of governance in the face of different types of crisis, at a time when Australia has recently faced the bushfire crisis, is currently addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, and faces challenges including climate change.
A Fair Day's Work
Young people in Australia are especially vulnerable to wage theft. To address the disadvantage wage theft causes, the Melbourne School of Government has proposed a multi-pronged approach that aims to first and foremost, support young people at risk of wage theft, while also providing data for regulators, policymakers and business to drive system change.
Information for researchers
The School of Government fosters a vibrant program of academic fora that support our research excellence. Alongside our competitive grants success, we host academics from around Australia and overseas to undertake research and to participate in and enrich the research intensive communal life of the School.
Commissioned research
If you have a specific issue in your workplace, our experts can provide independent judgements to find evidence-based solutions for your organisation.
The Melbourne School of Government's research agenda is informed by global and regional developments, in particular those associated with the 'Asian Century', and how country specific and regional public policy will need to adapt and change. Talk to us about how we can harness our knowledge to help your organisation overcome its key challenges.
Kylie O'Connell
Business Manager, Melbourne School of Government
Phone: +61 3 9035 4020
Email: kylie.oconnell@unimelb.edu.au
