Australian Government Response to the Independent Review of Commonwealth funding for strategic policy work

Introduction

Australia is facing some of its greatest strategic challenges of the last 70 years. Departments and agencies need to engage with the strategic policy sector where practical and necessary to do so. The government acknowledges the work undertaken across the strategic policy sector to strengthen national security through high-quality research, and encourages it to promote discourse on national security policy and address the challenges of maintaining peace and prosperity in our region, as well as globally.

Independent Review of Commonwealth funding for strategic policy work

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.

Release of the report and government response for the Independent review of Commonwealth funding for strategic policy work

The Australian Government has agreed to the majority of recommendations from an independent review of Commonwealth funding for strategic policy work.

The independent review considered all Australian Government funding to non-government organisations for national security-related research, education and engagement activities. It focused on ensuring that government funding delivers value for money and that funded programs remain aligned to Australia’s national interests and strategic circumstances.

State Funeral for the Honourable Kevin Andrews

A State Funeral for the Honourable Kevin Andrews will take place at 11.00 am on Monday 23 December 2024 at St Patrick's Cathedral, 1 Cathedral Place, Melbourne, Victoria.

In 1991, Mr Andrews was elected the Member for Menzies in Victoria. He was later appointed Cabinet Minister in the Howard and Abbott governments. Mr Andrews was appointed Minister for Ageing; Employment and Workplace Relations; Immigration and Citizenship; Social Services; Defence; and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Public Service.