What's working in public policy?

The University of Technology Sydney | Monday, 22 September 2025

In an era of rapid change and rising complexity, the question of what actually works in public policy and how those approaches can be scaled has never been more critical. This flagship summit brings together senior policymakers, researchers and community leaders to examine the strategies driving measurable impact across government and society.

Sessions will explore the key trends shaping public policy and spotlight specific areas where evidence and collaboration are delivering results – from education and health, environment and energy to economic development.

The event will also feature a Policy Impact Exhibition where university institutes and research centres will showcase their latest projects and impact on policy developments and innovation.

Speakers

Agenda

9:00am - 9:30am | Opening

Acknowledgment of Country – Aunty Glendra Stubbs OAM
Libby Hackett, CEO of APPI
Professor Andrew Parfitt, Vice-Chancellor and President of UTS

9:40am - 9:55am | Keynote address

Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science

10:00am - 10:45am | Panel 1: What's working in public policy: From policy to delivery

This panel explores effective public policy initiatives that deliver tangible social outcomes across diverse sectors. Bringing together policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, the session will examine the ingredients of effective policy design, offering insights into evidence-based decision-making, cross-sector collaboration, and delivery and implementation. Speakers will offer practical insights to inform future policy development.

10:50am - 11:35am | Policy impact exhibition and networking

The Policy Impact Exhibition showcases the high-impact projects of university institutes, which have far-reaching benefits for people across the country.

11:40am - 11:55am | Keynote address

Coming soon

12:00pm - 12:45pm | Panel 2: Steering economic and energy transitions to 2050

The Net Zero energy transition and climate adaptation, coupled with global economic changes and emerging technologies, has raised new challenges and opportunities for policymakers in ensuring that communities reap the benefits of rapid transformations. In this panel, leading experts will explore the key trends driving change in how governments deliver services, direct investment and community wellbeing. The discussion will focus on practical strategies for managing these complex shifts in ways that support long-term, sustainable, and diversified growth.

12:45pm - 12:55pm | Remarks

The Hon Patrick Gorman MP, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, Assistant Minister for the Public Service, Assistant Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations

12:55pm - 1:00pm | Closing comments

Coming soon