Australia has high levels of public trust, an active civil society and a strong tradition of democratic innovation. Yet, like many OECD countries, it faces trends ranging from social fragmentation to evolving patterns of civic engagement. In this context, strengthening the relationship between citizens and public institutions is essential to sustain democratic resilience.
This Open Government Review examines how Australia can further strengthen the conditions, institutions and practices that enable people to express their views, engage with government and help shape the policies that affect their lives. Drawing on evidence from Australia and international experiences, the review finds that the main challenge in Australia is to use participation more strategically and coherently, and to embed it as a core governance function.
The review includes recommendations to help Australia respond to new trends and seize opportunities to strengthen democratic resilience through protecting civic space and promoting meaningful citizen participation. By enhancing both the safeguards and opportunities for individuals to engage in public life, these measures can help foster trust and social cohesion and improve the quality and responsiveness of public action.
