Solving the toughest policy challenges facing Australia and the region

The Centre for Policy Development (CPD) is an independent, not-for-profit policy institute with staff in Sydney, Melbourne, and Jakarta.

Our vision is a fair, sustainable society and wellbeing economy that serves current and future generations in Australia and Southeast Asia.

Our mission is to help create transformative systems change through practical solutions to complex policy challenges. We tackle the hard questions, working towards change that is systemic and long-term.

CPD uses a distinctive Create-Connect-Convince method to influence government policy making.

People sitting on chair in front of table in daylight holding pens

We prepare rigorous, cross-disciplinary, evidence based research that outlines practical policy proposals and ideas for system change

We engage with government through carefully crafted submissions to consultation processes, addressing necessary, practical steps for reform

Man presenting into speaker at Twelfth Asia Dialogue on Forced Migration meeting

We connect decision makers across government, business, academia, NGOs and civil society to stress test policy ideas and guide their effective implementation

Focus areas

The Centre for Policy Development goes beyond research and advocacy—we drive policy from idea to implementation.

By ensuring our proposals are practical and gaining buy-in from policymakers, communities, business, and industry, we create lasting change. This hands-on approach sets us apart and ensures a real, tangible impact on the wellbeing of all.

Our work has significantly impacted policy in both Australia and Southeast Asia. We’ve influenced legislation requiring companies to disclose their climate footprint, driven reforms in employment and early childhood education, promoted wellbeing measures in government decision-making, and advanced support for refugees and displaced people in the region.

Our focus is on building a better tomorrow.

Our impact

In the media

Nations that score higher on economic complexity typically prove more resilient to shocks. Improving Australia's woeful global ranking is a top priority for the Centre for Policy Development.

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