The Latest Breaking News from Grattan Institute

How to reform the NDIS and better support disabled people who don’t qualify for it

Australia is spending more than ever on disability services – and yet many people with disability still aren’t receiving the support they need.

The Conversation · Jun 29, 2025

Need to see a specialist? You might have to choose between high costs and a long wait. Here’s what needs to change

If you have cancer, a disease such as diabetes or dementia, or need to manage other complex health conditions, you often need expert care from a specialist doctor.

The Conversation · Jun 15, 2025

One million Australians missing specialist doctor appointments due to cost, report finds

Grattan Institute finds one in 10 Australians now paying $600 a year for specialist appointments

The Guardian - AU · Jun 15, 2025

25 years into a new century and housing is less affordable than ever

Of all the problems facing Australia today, few have worsened so rapidly in the past 25 years as housing affordability.

The Conversation · Mar 27, 2025

Falling vaccination rates put children at risk of preventable diseases. Governments need a new strategy to boost uptake

Child vaccination is one of the most cost-effective health interventions. It accounts for 40% of the global reduction in infant deaths since 1974 and has led to big health gains in Australia over the past two decades.

The Conversation · Feb 23, 2025

Most retirees who rent live in poverty. Here’s how boosting rent assistance could help lift them out of it

Most Australians can look forward to a comfortable retirement. More than three in four retirees own their own home, most report feeling comfortable financially, and few suffer financial stress.

The Conversation · Feb 9, 2025

Political donations data show who’s funding whom in Australia – but they are coming out far too late

As federal parliament reconvenes this week, the pre-election buzz is palpable. When will the election be called? Which policies are on the table? And who’s backing whom in this election campaign?

The Conversation · Feb 3, 2025

Lifetime pensions urged to make super system easier

A report has called for retirees to be able to buy a lifetime annuity from the federal government to boost their super balance.

AAP · Jan 19, 2025

Superannuation is complicated. A guaranteed government income in retirement would be simpler

Having compulsory super should help create a comfortable and stress-free retirement. But Australia’s super system is too complex for retirees to navigate.

The Conversation · Jan 19, 2025

Getting antivirals for COVID too often depends on where you live and how wealthy you are

Medical experts recommend antivirals for people aged 70 and older who get COVID, and for other groups at risk of severe illness and hospitalisation from COVID.

The Conversation · Oct 6, 2024