Policy Design & PracticeInsights

Sound policy and effective decision-making starts with robust evidence and trusted advice. To achieve this, public servants need the capability and confidence to harness evidence – identifying emerging issues, shaping policy, and testing what works and why. In a world defined by complexity, uncertainty and rapid change, how do we enable public servants to design, deliver and evaluate programs that are impactful and sustainable?

The shift towards human-centred policy and programs – informed by the lived experiences of communities – combined with advances in technology and data, has broadened the voices contributing to public problem-solving. Engagement and place- based approaches demand co-design, collaboration and often non-linear methods that challenge traditional policy-making.

At the same time, the growing tendency to outsource policy advice raises concerns about the erosion of in-house expertise and long-term capability within the public service. Building and sustaining core policy knowledge is critical to ensuring governments can respond with agility, integrity and innovation.

At ANZSOG, we champion evidence-informed policy and the skills to make it happen. We equip public leaders to navigate complexity, embrace collaboration and deliver public value that endures.