Future-proofing policy: Why Australia must end ‘policrastination’
TAYLOR DEE HAWKINS, SUSAN HARRIS RIMMER, ELISE STEPHENSON MATTHEW DAY AND AMIE FURLONG |
In an era defined by overlapping crises—climate disruption, geopolitical instability, and the long tail of the pandemic—the question is no longer whether governments should think long term, but how. The new book, Future generations policy, governance and leadership: Ending ‘policrastination’, makes a compelling case that the time for incrementalism has passed. Instead, it calls for a fundamental shift in how policy is conceived, evaluated, and implemented—placing future generations at the centre of decision-making.
Authored by Taylor Dee Hawkins, Susan Harris Rimmer, Elise Stephenson, Matthew Day, and Amie Furlong, the book introduces a powerful concept: “policrastination”—the tendency of governments to delay or defer decisions that would benefit future generations. This framing captures a persistent failure in governance systems worldwide, where short-term political cycles often override long-term societal needs.
From crisis to opportunity
The book situates its argument within what many scholars describe as a global “polycrisis”—a convergence of interconnected challenges. Rather than viewing this as purely destabilising, the authors see an opportunity: a moment to rethink governance itself. They argue that embedding intergenerational fairness into policymaking is not only ethically necessary but also essential for effective governance.
Central to this vision is the idea that current and future interests are not in opposition, but deeply intertwined. Decisions made today—on climate, infrastructure, education, or health—will shape outcomes for decades. Ignoring this reality leads to costly policy failures; embracing it opens the door to more resilient and equitable systems.
Learning from global leaders
A key reference point throughout the book is the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, implemented in Wales. This landmark legislation requires public bodies to consider the long-term impact of their decisions, effectively institutionalising future-focused thinking.
The authors explore how a similar framework could be adapted for Australia, arguing that such an approach would embed intergenerational justice into law. This is not presented as a simple policy transplant, but as a model that could be tailored to Australia’s unique political, environmental, and social context.
An ecosystem approach to policymaking
One of the book’s strengths lies in its practical orientation. Beyond diagnosing the problem, it offers a structured framework for change. This includes:
- An ecosystem approach that recognises the interconnected nature of policy domains
- Tools for implementation and evaluation to ensure future-focused policies are not just aspirational, but measurable
- Governance mechanisms that promote accountability across political cycles
By integrating these elements, the authors outline how future generations policy can move from theory to everyday practice.
Australia’s moment to lead
The book is particularly timely for Australia. With increasing attention on sustainability, economic resilience, and regional leadership, there is growing recognition that long-term thinking must underpin national strategy.
As highlighted by Andrew Leigh, the book challenges policymakers “to be better ancestors.” This idea resonates strongly in the Australian context, where decisions on climate policy, regional engagement, and social investment carry profound implications for future generations.
The authors argue that Australia is well positioned to lead globally in this space—if it is willing to act decisively. Doing so would not only improve domestic policy outcomes, but also strengthen Australia’s role in shaping international norms around intergenerational equity.
Towards a new social contract
Ultimately, Ending ‘Policrastination’ is about more than policy reform—it is about redefining the relationship between governments, citizens, and the future. The final chapters call for a new social contract, one that explicitly recognises obligations to those yet to be born.
This is both an ethical and practical proposition. As the book makes clear, failing to account for future generations is no longer a neutral choice—it is a risk multiplier in an already uncertain world.
A timely and necessary contribution
Endorsed by leaders such as Sophie Howe and Sophie Lewis, the book is described as rigorous, hopeful, and actionable. It speaks not only to policymakers, but to anyone invested in the long-term wellbeing of society.
For Australia—and indeed the broader Indo-Pacific region—the message is clear: the future cannot wait. Ending policrastination is not just desirable; it is essential.
Professor Susan Harris Rimmer and Dr Elise Stephenson are members of the Griffith Asia Institute. Matthew Day is a Griffith Law student and a member of Foundations for Tomorrow, Sydney. Taylor Dee Hawkins and Amie Furlong are also from Foundations for Tomorrow, Sydney.