This research paper argues that improving Australian school education policy and outcomes requires a return to first principles. It proposes that policymakers and educators must begin at the national education goals. A strong national framework needs clear expectations and a coherent sense of purpose. The paper outlines the Australian Air Force Cadets as an example.

Australian students’ decline in academic achievement has eroded public confidence, according to this paper, which positions debating skills as a possible solution. The paper provides examples from centuries of writing, arguing that debating can cement knowledge across subject areas, enhance language proficiency and encourage thoughtful, articulate and confident civic engagement.

In the context of national reviews of curriculum and teacher education, this paper traces Australia’s history of policy instability in English literacy education and proposes strategies for improvements and greater accountability.

This paper argues that as the strengths and weaknesses of the Australian federation are tested, there can be few more powerful avenues leading to national unity and prosperity than a genuinely world-class Australian curriculum.

This policy paper analyses the preferences and priorities of Australian parents in relation to childcare, based on the insights gathered from a targeted survey of working mothers who are using formal childcare. The paper also examines whether parents’ priorities align with government priorities for childcare and identifies some key implications for governments.