Our strategic context

Australia is a liberal democracy with a mixed market economy

This means that while prices are largely set by supply and demand, government intervention and regulation play a vital role in balancing the benefits of an open market with the need for social welfare and economic stability.

Like other developed economies, we rely on the dynamic interaction of business and consumers, underpinned by essential government services and philanthropic giving.

Learning from the past; shaping the future

Throughout history, societies have experienced periods of remarkable advancement - think of the classical Greek era, Islamic caliphates, and the Italian Renaissance. These “golden ages” were shaped by a unique blend of political stability, economic prosperity, open exchange of ideas, and pioneering innovation.

While our current economic systems have enabled prosperity for many, they have also contributed to income and wealth inequality, exclusion, and patterns of discrimination and marginalisation.

Today, these challenges are prompting fresh thinking and new approaches.