Today, the James Martin Institute for Public Policy (JMI) released its Annual Impact Report 2023-24, marking three years of driving innovation in Australian policymaking. By fostering collaboration between government and universities, JMI has made significant strides in delivering solutions to some of the nation’s most pressing policy challenges.

Key projects in FY 2023-24 included developing solutions for critical policy priorities such as child protection system reform and AI governance. JMI has worked alongside government partners on pressing issues like vocational education and training, the Australian Universities Accord, and NSW’s health research and innovation ecosystem. Through these collaborations, JMI has helped shape policies and strategies that respond directly to real-world needs, informed by world-class research.

JMI’s impact is also reflected in the numbers: over the past year, the institute led over 630 direct engagements between policymakers, researchers, and other experts and facilitated more than 540 hours of collaboration between these groups. Additionally, over 520 government policymakers and experts from diverse fields shared their expertise to help guide JMI’s work, ensuring that projects remain relevant and impactful.

In addition to its project work, JMI continues its prestigious Policy Challenge Grants program, distributing a total $1.5 million by the end of 2024 to support university research teams over its three years of operation. These teams are addressing complex policy topics such as housing, energy policy and social equity. Several Policy Fellows, drawn from both government and academia, are working on projects that aim to drive long-term policy innovation.

Another notable achievement in 2024 was the addition of the University of Wollongong (UOW) to JMI’s growing network of university partners, strengthening its ability to address regional and national policy challenges. This expansion, along with ongoing initiatives like the Policy Talks series for public servants, ensures that JMI continues to build momentum in transforming policymaking across policy areas and regions.

Through its unique collaboration model and commitment to evidence-based policy solutions, JMI is driving meaningful change for the public good and strengthening the impact of policymaking in Australia.