Discussions about the need to improve the linkages between research and government in order to enhance public policy often focus on the ‘gap’ or ‘chasm’ between the two communities. But are things actually that bad? Do we need Chief Scientists in every Australian Government department – as in the UK – or something else? What institutions do we already have, and what do we need?

This workshop addressed these questions, with a particular focus on ‘boundary’ players – institutions and individuals that work at the interface of research and policy, helping to broker and translate knowledge in relevant and useful ways.