Welcome to the Think+DO Tank Foundation’s exclusive research, advocacy and policy hub. Thank you for joining our community! By signing up, you’ve unlocked access to our latest studies, insights, and advocacy reports, all designed to drive meaningful change in communities.
Think+DO Tank Foundation’s methodology is to actively and consistently inquire into the needs, aspirations and challenges of the individuals and communities with whom we work.
Our central guiding question is: What would make life here easier, better or more affordable?
We have conducted more than 84 structured inquiries with more than 1200 respondents since our inception in 2013 into questions as diverse as food security; transport disadvantage; multilingualism; visions for local community; digital connectivity; and the needs of local artists in South Western Sydney. In addition, as a central part of our methodology, the Foundation retains a team of bilingual Community Connectors to maintain an active dialogue with community participants, and to widen the reach of our community engagement. This Community Voices dialogue shapes our organisational priorities, our programming and guides our daily practice.
Here, we share a selection of Think+DO Tank Foundation’s research, consultation, and policy work. We welcome your feedback and interest in upcoming research and collaborations.
Submission into the review of the current National Cultural Policy, REVIVE: a place for every story, a story for every place (2023-2028). Towards a new National Cultural Policy
Summary: The Commonwealth Government is uniquely positioned to ensure the arts are at the centre of our national identity, democratic fabric and social, economic and cultural development. It is important that that the arts and cultural policy that results from this work is capable of bipartisan support to ensure enduring implementation.
We make this submission with an expectation that with a sustained policy framework coupled with increased investment, the Commonwealth accepts responsibility for ensuring that through its own investment and support, and leadership of all State and Territory jurisdictions, the full ecology of arts and culture in Australia from early learning centres to schools and arts training centres; and from community arts centres to major performing arts companies is sustained.
For more information on the National Cultural Policy visit https://www.arts.gov.au/what-we-do/revive-place-every-story-story-every-place
Submission to Standing Committee on Social Issues on Loneliness (2024)
Summary: This submission to the Standing Committee on Social Issues highlights the growing concern around loneliness in Australian communities. It proposes comprehensive policy actions to address social isolation, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Digital Equity & Education (2024) - A NSW Case Study
Launch Event
LAUNCHED BY: Jan Fran
INTRODUCTION BY: Distinguished Professor George Williams AO
Vice-Chancellor and President, Western Sydney University
Summary: In collaboration with Wester’ly, Whitlam Institute, and Centre for Western Sydney, this report addresses critical gaps in digital equity and the role education plays in bridging these disparities. The report explores the need for digital infrastructure, access, and education programs to empower communities and enable equitable participation in a digital society.
Read the full report: Digital Equity & Education Report
LinkedIn Highlights: Event Launch on LinkedIn
The event, "Digital Equity and Education: A NSW Case Study," launched a report on the digital inclusion challenges faced by students in NSW. Jane Stratton, CEO of Think+DO Tank Foundation, participated in a panel discussing strategies to address digital equity, alongside other key figures such as MP Charishma Kaliyanda and Associate Professor Tanya Notley. The research highlighted significant disparities in digital access, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged and refugee students, and called for immediate action to ensure equal access to digital resources and skills across the state.
Panel Appearance: Watch the panel discussion
PANEL DISCUSSION:
Mediator: Dr Rhonda Itaoui |Director Centre for Western Sydney
Panel: Charishma Kaliyanda, MP | Member for Liverpool
Associate Professor Tanya Notley | Western Sydney University
Jane Stratton | CEO Think + DO Tank Foundation
INSIGHTS FROM THE REPORT: Professor Azadeh Dastyari
Director, Research and Policy, Whitlam Institute
ADDRESS BY: The Hon. Jihad Dib MP
Member for Bankstown | Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government | Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister for Youth Justice
Submission: NSW Government, Creative Communities, A New Look at Culture: NSW Arts & Creative Industries Policy (2023)
Summary: This submission highlights key areas for improving support for the arts, culture, and creative industries in NSW. It advocates for increased investment, especially in small and medium arts sectors, through more transparent and predictable funding. It calls for a focus on community-controlled infrastructure, high-quality training pathways, and multilingual initiatives that reflect the state's diverse population. Recommendations include creating permanent community arts spaces, improving workforce development, and fostering inclusive cultural programs. The submission stresses the need for equitable support to drive innovation and engagement across the sector.
Digital Inclusion Asks and Position Papers, Wester’ly (2020 – 2024)
Summary: Jane Stratton, a key contributor from Think+DO Tank Foundation, played a significant role in the Wester'ly Briefing Paper, which addresses digital equity issues in disadvantaged communities. The paper highlights the disparity in access to technology and the internet, particularly in Western Sydney, and offers actionable recommendations for bridging the digital divide. It covers topics such as infrastructure gaps, affordability, and improving digital literacy.
LIANZA Conference 2021
Keynote Address: The Public Library Will Never Die
Presenter: Jane Stratton, Think+DO Tank Foundation
Summary: In this keynote and interactive workshop, Jane Stratton highlighted the enduring importance of public libraries in fostering community engagement, lifelong learning, and social inclusion.
Watch the keynote video: Public Library Keynote Video
Access the keynote presentation: Keynote Slides
NZ Media Interview: Radio NZ Interview
Research Paper: Social Cohesion - Places for Belonging
Lead Researcher: Sienna Aguilar, Think+DO Tank Foundation
Co-lead Researcher: Jane Stratton
Summary: This research explores the importance of community spaces that foster belonging, social inclusion, and collective identity. In collaboration with Western Sydney University, UNSW, and the University of Technology Sydney, the research examines how these spaces can support social cohesion in diverse communities.
Research & Practice Seminar: Transformative Social Science
Event by: The Australian Sociological Association (TASA)
Summary: This seminar brought together researchers and practitioners to explore the role of social science in transformative change, particularly in the areas of social justice, community development, and equity.
Find out more about on Facebook or LinkedIn
Mental Wellbeing Impact Assessment: On-Demand Transport
Summary: This report presents the findings of the Mental Wellbeing Impact Assessment (MWIA) for The People Movers, a transport initiative by the Think + Do Tank Foundation aimed at addressing transport disadvantage in low-income communities of South Western Sydney. Conducted in collaboration with health and community organizations, the assessment explores the mental wellbeing benefits of providing demand-responsive transport and its potential to improve social inclusion, access to services, and overall community wellbeing. Key findings and recommendations for effective implementation are outlined to maximise the program’s impact.
Solutions Paper: The People Movers Demand Transport Solution: A pilot for the Fairfield LGA
Summary: This report outlines the need for an on-demand responsive transport (DRT) service in Fairfield LGA, a socioeconomically disadvantaged area in South Western Sydney. With high unemployment, cultural diversity, and significant humanitarian migration, residents face transport challenges that hinder community participation and exacerbate social isolation. Survey data from TDTF highlights the demand for affordable, flexible transport solutions. The report proposes a DRT van service in the eastern suburbs of Fairfield LGA, aiming to address these needs and improve accessibility and social inclusion for local residents.