Andrew Wear

The COVID-19 crisis gives us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build back better. Recovery is not a given. It all depends on policy choices.

Despite short-term frustrations and complications — both practical and political — when viewed with a longer-term perspective, Australia has actually been remarkably successful on the metrics that really matter. Andrew Wear demonstrates.

Much has been made of the revolving door of the federal industry minister, but contemporary industry policy is now a cross-portfolio, cross-jurisdictional negotiation. In this crucial arena, public servants are leading a new approach.

Australian governments are still learning how to deal with the challenges and complexity of delivering infrastructure to rapidly growing outer-suburban communities. But the policy area is crucial.

The battle of our bulging cities requires a massive investment in social infrastructure. But who does the planning? Who pays? And how is it delivered? Victorian bureaucrat Andrew Wear lays out the case.

Victoria has reason to crow about public policy successes in recent years. A survey of public servants across the service reveals the top reforms making the state a better place to live.