Expert-informed decisions for a better world

About

The Tasmanian Policy Exchange (TPE), created in 2020, is a work unit within the University of Tasmania that uses evidence-based research and stakeholder engagement to help provide solutions to policy challenges in Tasmania with global relevance. The TPE applies academic skills, research, and the practical experience of staff within our institution itself to these issues to support the University’s positive impact on the Tasmanian community and to contribute to an environmentally, economically and socially sustainable future for all Tasmanians and beyond.

Unlike traditional consultancies, the TPE leverages the considerable skills and knowledge available across the University. Subject experts partner on projects when needed, with the TPE acting as a bridge between academia and government, industry and community. Projects are a mix of strategic University projects and projects with external partners. The TPE is evidence-based and objective, only taking up projects that seek to make Tasmania a better place for all.

Top 3 learnings

1. Our partner researchers are enthusiastic about applying their work to policy challenges but often don’t have the time or networks to do it on their own.
2. External partners have a great thirst for independent evidence-based policy research and analysis.
3. Working with our contributor experts we have learned that working together, we are more than the sum of our parts.

What it means to win

"Winning this International Green Gown Award recognises the University of Tasmania’s

commitment to fresh thinking and strong partnerships to help a sustainable future to arrive sooner.

The Tasmanian Policy Exchange embodies that approach to creating ambitious partnerships

with our community to tackle the future changing questions that they most care about.”

Vice-Chancellor Professor Rufus Black

Judges Feedback 

An outstanding submission demonstrating a mature and highly impactful approach to translating university expertise into meaningful societal benefit. The judges were particularly impressed by the strength of the institutional approach, its relevance to real-world challenges and the potential for wider application. The initiative demonstrated strong leadership, engagement and a compelling connection between academic expertise and positive societal outcomes. Its overall quality, ambition and potential for lasting and transferable impact made it a highly deserving winner.