Public policy permeates our lives. It is the stuff of government, the justification for taxes, the foundation of the laws that regulate our behaviour, the support for health, education and other social services. Public policy gives us roads, railways and airports, drought relief, emergency services, industry and employment development, and natural resource management. While politicians make the decisions, public servants provide analysis and support for those choices.

The authors draw on their depth of practical experience to outline the processes used in making public policy. They systematically explain the relationships between political decision-makers, public service advisers, other community participants, and those charged with implementing the programs that result. The Australian Policy Handbook is a unique contribution to improving public policy.

The fourth edition of this widely used text is fully updated, and includes new material on evidence-based policy making, deliberative democracy and consultation processes, the media, community engagement and networks.  less