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About Us
NEWS & INSIGHTS
celebrating ten years of Mckinnon
In 2015, McKinnon began with a simple belief: by investing in better governments, we can build a stronger Australia for the generations that follow. This year has brought that belief into sharper focus. To mark the year, we’ve created a short video capturing the momentum, milestones and people who have shaped the journey so far.
At McKinnon we believe better governments is the key to a stronger Australia. The quality of our leadership and democracy has never mattered more. That’s why we work to develop political leadership, strengthen our institutions and solve the most pressing policy issues to create lasting outcomes that benefit all Australians.
but it cannot be taken for granted. Trust is declining, public debate is becoming more polarised, and too many Australians feel disconnected from how decisions are made. Democracy requires constant renewal to remain effective and legitimate. Democracy Counts is a national campaign to strengthen the foundations of our system and put people back at the centre.
Across Australia one in three students don't meet literacy or numeracy benchmarks. In England, a new approach has transformed outcomes. Multi-School Organisations (MSOs) bring families of schools together under shared executive leadership to deliver a common blueprint to lift outcomes for every student. Following a McKinnon Study Tour in 2024, Tasmania announced a ground-breaking five-year trial of MSOs. Beginning in Term 1, 2026, the trial involves supports Tasmanian schools to operate as a family, supported by a joint executive team that takes on administration and back-office tasks. McKinnon's Policy Innovation team are working closely with the Department for Education, Children and Young People as an implementation partner. With bipartisan backing, Tasmania’s trial will build the evidence base for reforms that could be scaled across the country.
The McKinnon Prize celebrates outstanding political leaders who demonstrate courage, integrity and a commitment to serve their communities and country. This film reflects on the power of great leadership to bring people together and build a stronger Australia.
McKinnon Leadership
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Over 40% of parliamentarians across Australia's nine parliaments have participated in a McKinnon Institute professional development program
109 McKinnon Scholars have graduated from the Institute's flagship Advanced Political Leadership program, with 62 serving in executive or shadow roles
Through the McKinnon Prize, recognised 20 federal, state, territory and local politicians for outstanding political leadership, celebrating vision, collaboration, courage and ethical behaviour
Expanded our leadership development work through Next Horizon, supporting emerging political talent and helping build the next generation of Australia's political leaders
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“I thank McKinnon and the University of Melbourne for the work they do to advocate for democracy and encourage strong political leadership.”
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"I’m grateful for the insights gained from APL about how to navigate complex policy issues, achieve ambitious reform and deliver for our constituents."
McKInnon democracy
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The Democracy Counts campaign successfully called for the reintroduction of improved political donation laws in Victoria, following a High Court decision that left the state without public funding or donation laws
The Democracy Counts campaign coordinated successful advocacy to ensure the News Bargaining Incentive supported news diversity and local independent publishers
McKinnon played a key role in the successful campaign for the National Anti-Corruption Commission
McKinnon helped shaped national debate on truth in political advertising, fixed four-year terms, and social media accountability
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“Australians want to be involved in the decisions which affect their lives. That’s why McKinnon is committed to driving reform which strengthens our democracy.”
McKInnon public sector
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McKinnon is actively working with public services, alongside the governments of the day they service, to strengthen systems and capabilities to deliver priorities and have measurable impact on outcomes for Australians
McKinnon established the Shadow SPI project to bring independent scrutiny to 9 Bills in NSW Parliament.
In partnership with APO provides all public servants free access to the latest in policy and research
Released a blueprint to strengthen policy accountability and transparency
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“Australians are losing trust in the effectiveness and integrity of government. We need to significantly enhance the way parliamentarians, ministers, ministerial advisers and public servants operate and work together in the interests of their citizens.”
McKInnon policy innovation
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McKinnon-funded Grattan Institute research and UK study tours helped pave the way for Australia’s first Multi-School Organisation trial, now underway in Tasmania
Brought business, civil society and policy leaders together to sign the National Tax Reform Roadmap, committing to a shared approach to making reform possible
Ongoing support of e61, a cutting-edge economic research institute delivering real-world insights
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"In England, Multi-School Organisations have been a powerful lever for improving excellence and equity in education. McKinnon is showing leadership and ambition - working to support governments to translate this policy in action, and replicate those improvements here in Australia."
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