On 5 February 2024, the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet launched the Independent Review of Commonwealth funding for strategic policy work (the review). Led by Mr Peter Varghese AO, the review assessed all Australian Government funding to non-government organisations for national security-related research, education and engagement activities.
The review found that, while the current system delivers many benefits, there is considerable room for improvement. Of the 14 recommendations in the report, the government has agreed to eight in full, agreed a further three in-principle, and has noted three.
Recommendations agreed to in full by government include:
- Implementing a principles-based framework to support consistent decision making on commissioning strategic policy work.
- Providing annual priorities for the think tank and strategic policy sector.
- Preserving the independence of departments and agencies to commission strategic policy work, provided decisions are consistent with the framework and annual priorities.
Where the government has noted a recommendation, it will seek to implement the recommendation where appropriate and in consideration of existing independent processes, and current policies and rules.
The strategic policy sector plays an important role in driving public discussion and strengthening partnerships on national security matters. Changes implemented through the government response will promote a stronger and more sustainable sector into the future. This includes ensuring continued value-for-money for the Australian Government.
The government response to the review is available at: Australian Government Response to the Independent Review of Commonwealth funding for strategic policy work