Policy institutes study a wide range public policy issues and topics; publish position papers; conduct conferences on public policy topics; etc. Their web sites are often good sources of information and opinion on public issues.

Some policy institutes are nonpartisan, particularly if they are associated with universities, but most have a particular point of view. Institutes in this category cover the full range of the political spectrum.

Websites on Policy Institutes

  • Centre for Independent Studies CIS -A classical liberal public policy institute, which supports a free enterprise economy and a free society under limited government.
  • Institute for Private Enterprise -An organisation promoting private enterprise, economic reform, political reform, free market commercial activity, productive investment and the reduction of the role of government.
  • Institute of Public Affairs IPA -An institute promoting an understanding and appreciation of the free society and free enterprise. Hundreds of studies and articles available online.
  • Mannkal Economic Education Foundation -A Perth-based registered non-profit organisation promoting libertarianism.
  • The Sydney Institute -A conservative think tank dedicated to the principle of policy debate. It conducts more than 50 lectures, seminars and panel discussions each year.
  • The Brisbane Institute -A think tank arranging seminars, policy briefings and conferences.
  • Evatt Foundation -A social democratic think tank committed to furthering the ideals of social justice, equality, participation and human rights.
  • The Australia Institute -An independent think tank dedicated to develop and conduct research and policy analysis and to participate forcefully in public debates.
  • Page Research Centre -The Page Research Centre has been established to undertake research and develop policy aimed at enhancing the prosperity of regional and rural Australia.
  • Institute for Economic Justice -Institute to protect and encourage the economic rights of individuals.
  • Lowy Institute for International Policy -Promotes discussion and produces distinctive research and fresh policy options for Australia’s international policy.
  • Menzies Research Centre -Undertakes research into policy issues which will enhance the principles of liberty, free speech, competitive enterprise, limited government and democracy.