A Fair Go for All
Why Australia needs intergenerational policymaking
Growing Demand for Intergenerational Policy
The need for intergenerational policymaking has never been greater. Australians are increasingly concerned about whether government decision-making accounts for the long-term challenges facing future generations.
This research engaged 1,000 Australians to capture public attitudes on intergenerational policymaking and sought to understand how much Australian voters care about long-term policymaking.
97%
of Australians believe
that current policies must consider the interests of future generations.
81%
Feel that Australian politicians focus too much on short-term decisions.
79%
Support the establishment of a commissioner for future generations.
In partnership with the Global Institute for Women's Leadership at the Australian National University and Griffith University’s EveryGen initiative, Foundations for Tomorrow co-authored the Fair Go for All: Intergenerational Justice Policy Survey.
This research highlights Australians’ attitudes towards future-focused policymaking and their expectations for government leadership in addressing long-term challenges.
A Fair Go For All
Intergenerational Justice Policy Survey
This research underscores the urgent need for long-term policymaking that balances immediate priorities with sustainable, equitable solutions for future generations.
About the Authors
The Fair Go for All: Intergenerational Justice Policy Survey was co-authored by:
Professor Susan Harris Rimmer, Griffith University
Dr Elise Stephenson, The Australian National University (ANU)
Taylor Hawkins, Foundations for Tomorrow
Key Findings & Insights
Strong Public Support for Future-Focused Policies: 97% of Australians believe current policies should consider the interests of future generations.
Concerns About Short-Term Political Thinking: 81% agree that Australian politicians prioritise short-term gains over long-term benefits.
Demand for Long-Term Vision in Politics: Three-quarters of respondents feel that political debates fail to adequately consider 10- to 20-year outlooks.
Skepticism in Policymakers’ Expertise on Emerging Issues: Australians express the least confidence in policymakers’ ability to address topics such as AUKUS, artificial intelligence, and climate adaptation.
Support for a Commissioner for Future Generations: 78% of respondents advocate for the establishment of an independent Commissioner to ensure long-term interests are represented in policy decisions.
Insights into Impact
Insights from this research contributed to the development of the For Our Future Policy Brief and development of the Wellbeing of Future Generations Bill, introduced into the Australian Federal Parliament in February, 2025.
