Making research matter: Tips for academics engaging with policy makers

How can academics engage with government? BETA is supported by our Academic Advisory Panel (AAP) who provide expert advice on the application of behavioural economics in public policy. In this blog, we share four key tips for academics engaging with government.

Applying behavioural insights responsibly

How does BETA ensure it applies behavioural insights ethically? Our blog explores the key principles to guide the ethical application of behavioural science in government.

Consult the public better with these lessons from social research

Need to consult the public? BETA shares some lessons from a research approach that can be applied to all kinds of community engagements.

More than nudges: the value of behavioural economics in regulation

Regulators are increasingly recognising the value of behavioural economics in regulatory design and enforcement. And in 2023, it’s clear that the value of the behavioural perspective extends well beyond nudges.

What’s not working? Understanding and improving retention in the NDIS workforce

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) workforce has an average annual turnover rate of 17-25%, which is notably high compared to other similar sectors and across the workforce as a whole. BETA partnered with the Department of Social Services to investigate why turnover in the NDIS workforce is high and to design interventions to increase worker retention.

Behavioural insights help people to bet within their budget

Keeping betting on track

In 2020 when Australia went into its first round of COVID-19 lockdowns, there was a dramatic uptick in online gambling. As betting venues closed, and AFL games were played with no crowds in attendance, Australians shifted to placing their bets on online platforms, with a surge in online gambling spending. Betting on sports or races can be legally done by downloading an app from a registered provider. Once you have the app, placing bets is effortless and can be done from anywhere.

Counting on us: How start dates affect Census participation

The Census is the most comprehensive data collection activity in Australia. It is an invaluable source of information that enables communities, governments and businesses to make informed decisions.

The Census has previously focused on a single 'Census Night'. In 2021, to encourage participation, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) highlighted that people had a number of days to complete the Census. BETA partnered with the ABS to test this change.

BETA in 2022

2022 was again a year of change and challenge. BETA’s work program adapted accordingly. We worked on some of the most urgent complex policy problems, including skills shortages, women’s labour force participation and energy prices.