ARC Life Course Centre International Data for Policy Workshop

Abstract

Objectives Identify factors that support development of socially acceptable next generation linked data ecosystems that deliver higher standards in research, evaluation, and evidence-based policy. Approach Australian speakers showcased Australia’s current state of play in linked, longitudinal life course data. This was contrasted with examples of data settings in other countries, via international speakers. Results Several points of agreement emerged as areas for global improvement, such as: • Developing best practice guidelines for inclusion of non-government organisation (NGO) service data into government funded, research accessible, safe-sharing, linked data systems • Standardising user accreditation and credentialing that can be recognised across multiple data systems, to prevent duplication and aid efficiency • Advocate for building evaluation funding into NGO service contracts • Consider developing Community Data Labs/Data Explorers/Data Concierge Services to facilitate easy access and intuitive use of data by non-expert users (E.g. government, NGO, philanthropic, general public users, etc…) • Encourage publication of measures of linkage quality by both custodians of data linkage systems and researchers • Consider Indigenous Data Sovereignty, and sovereignty of other population groups, when collecting, linking, using, and reporting from administrative data about them. Conclusion The ARC Life Course Centre Data for Policy Portfolio members will determine how to prioritise our approach to each of these points and get a better understanding of how we could pursue them in partnership with key stakeholders domestically and internationally.