A competitive framework for government’s engagement of researchers

This article identifies a range of contestable and transparent mechanisms that Australian government agencies (including departments) may use to engage academic consultants and supporting research. It also provides guidance on deciding which mechanisms (such as tenders, calls for proposals or hybrid approaches) are most appropriate in specific circumstances. The key conclusion is that the selection of a mechanism involves trade-offs, and the best choice will likely depend on the research topic, the nature of the project, and the level of expertise within the agency.