The Forward Guidance Series by The Social Policy Group is a thought leadership series designed to support forward-looking, evidence-informed national policy planning. Drawing on the expertise of founding CEO Carla Wilshire OAM, an economist with a background in public policy, impact strategy, governance, emerging technologies, and tertiary research, the series offers strategic insights grounded in rigorous analysis. Underpinned by a unique economic modelling mechanism developed in-house, each publication aims to help decision-makers anticipate and shape responses to complex, long-term challenges. The series goes beyond commentary, offering practical guidance to inform policy, investment, and institutional settings across government and civil society.
Latest Edition
Australia’s economy, historically shaped by resource extraction, housing speculation and financial conservatism, now faces growing risks as the global shift toward innovation and complexity exposes deep structural vulnerabilities beneath surface-level prosperity.
In the second instalment of the Forward Guidance series developed by The Social Policy Group’s founding CEO Carla Wilshire OAM, Australia Locked In examines the historical foundations, present-day dynamics and global context of these forces, highlighting the challenges Australia faces and exploring the transformative changes needed to break free from this restrictive cycle.
We also extend our respect to emerging leaders and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, acknowledging their enduring connection to the lands, waters, skies, and communities across this nation.
We honour the resilience, strength, and diversity of First Nations cultures and celebrate their ongoing contributions to society. Through our work, we strive to support equity, inclusion, and respect for the world’s oldest continuing cultures, understanding that this is fundamental to achieving social justice and a better future for all Australians. We acknowledge that sovereignty has never been ceded, and we affirm that the lands on which we operate always were, and always will be, Aboriginal land.
