The Australia Institute — Democracy & Accountability Program
The Democracy & Accountability Program is a dedicated research and advocacy program within The Australia Institute, a Canberra-based progressive think tank. Established in 2021, it builds on the Institute's longer history of democracy-related research.
The program is directed by Bill Browne and focuses on practical reforms to improve the functioning of Australian democracy.
Core focus areas
- Truth in political advertising — advocates for laws making it illegal to make false claims in political advertising, modelled on South Australia's existing framework; polling has shown large public support
- Parliamentary expansion — research on increasing the size of parliament to improve representation, given each MP now represents significantly more constituents than at Federation
- Anti-corruption and integrity — work on strengthening the National Anti-Corruption Commission, whistleblower protections, and lobbying transparency
- Campaign finance — research on donation disclosure, caps, and spending limits
- Senate and parliamentary procedure — research on the Senate's role, four-year fixed terms, and related reforms
Links
- Website: australiainstitute.org.au
- Annual review: Australian Democracy in 2025
See also
Upcoming events
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2026-08-17
Dr Hugh Saddler Memorial Lecture 2026 — Shane Rattenbury on how the ACT turned climate ambition into action, National Film and Sound Archive ACT
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Join us at the 2026 Dr Hugh Saddler Memorial Lecture, featuring former ACT Minister, Greens Leader, and long‑serving parliamentarian Shane Rattenbury.
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2026-09-15
Climate Integrity Summit 2026 — global leaders, economists and advocates on Australia's fossil fuel exit, Parliament of NSW Sydney
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The Climate Integrity Summit convenes leading experts in economics, ecology, policy and governance to discuss a credible and achievable climate policy that serves the Australian people and the broader global community.
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