About us


The Australian Institute of Policy & Science (AIPS) is an independent and not-for profit organisation. Established in 1932, the Institute has undertaken diverse activities to achieve its aims over its long history. Currently, the Institute's major activities are:


  • AQ - Australian Quarterly; the Institute's flagship publication which publishes articles that examine political, economic, social and cultural issues vital to Australia in the world.
  • The Tall Poppy Campaign; a campaign to promote awareness and recognition of Australia's outstanding intellectual achievers, especially in scientific endeavours, and to encourage younger generations to follow in their footsteps through undertaking further study and careers in the sciences. The Campaign incorporates the biennial Florey Medal, annual Young Tall Poppy Science Awards, the Tall Poppies Reaching Students Program and other activities to promote understanding of scientific issues among the broader community.
  • Public forums for discussion and debate on contemporary public policy issues, including the Post Budget Health Briefing; an annual event at which the Federal Minister for Health and Ageing briefs the health and medical policy sector following the announcement of the Federal Budget, and the Peter Wilenski Memorial Lecture.

 

During 2009, the Institue undertook a strategic review with extensive consultation. We recognised the need to refresh our focus. Many contributors to our review believed that over coming decades, critical and challenging public policy and regulatory issues as well as industry directions will require scientific input as well as engagement with the community and science and technology experts. They also identified a specific niche for the Institute in enhanced policy engagement while continuing our current activities to promote science excellence and to inspire the younger generation and the broader public through our Tall Poppy Campaign and associated activities which aim to enhance scientific literary.

 

As a result of this process, on 30 September 2009 we adopted a new and ambitious set of strategic priorities for 2010 - 2113. To achieve our aspirations, we aim to form innovative partnerships.

 

Our key Values, which inform all our work, are:

  • Integrity
  • Inclusiveness
  • Innovation
  • Inspiration
  • Inquiry
  • Independence and impartiality