Established in 2016, the Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC) is an independent, not-for-profit consumer think-tank accredited by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. We work to create fairer markets for all Australians through evidence-based research that drives policy change.
Our mission
Our mission is to create fairer markets for all Australians.
With a strong focus on equitable access and sustainability, we champion new thinking to create systemic change for consumers by gathering evidence and building communities of interest to improve consumer wellbeing
Our research areas
Sustainable living
Investigating misleading green claims, product repairability and durability standards, and barriers to sustainable consumer choices. We work to ensure Australians have access to clear, reliable information to make truly environmentally conscious purchasing choices.
A fairer digital world
Addressing online consumer harms including privacy breaches, scams, deceptive AI practices, and manipulative digital design. We advocate for updated consumer laws that protect Australians in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Safe, secure, affordable housing
Examining consumer issues across all housing types, from rental markets and mortgage products to residential parks mobile home communities. We research how housing policies and practices impact consumer wellbeing and financial security.
Fair treatment and outcomes
Exploring consumer protection gaps, including defective vehicle laws ("lemon" car protections), ineffective policy frameworks, and systemic issues where existing laws fail to deliver fair outcomes for Australian consumers.
Our Approach
We take a people-centred approach to consumer research, ensuring our work is informed by the voices of Australians. Through interdisciplinary research and collaboration with policymakers, regulators, academia, industry and community organisations, we solve complex policy problems by:
- Monitoring and identifying issues – Using consumer insights to identify emerging challenges and policy gaps
- Researching consumer protection outcomes – Ensuring policy recommendations are grounded in rigorous evidence
- Translating research into policy and practice – Turning knowledge into implementable solutions for public benefit
- Collaborating to amplify impact – Working across sectors to drive meaningful change
How we work
CPRC conducts policy research internally and in partnership with other agencies. We promote, translate and support collaborative work as an effective way to build shared understanding around policy reform.
Our work reflects the complete policy cycle: issue identification, consultation, analysis of policy instruments, recommendation for change, and evaluation.
Our theory of change
Our Theory of Change outlines how we turn consumer insights into practical solutions, shaping better policies, business practices, and protections for all Australians.
We drive change through three key steps:
- Unearth – We uncover critical consumer challenges through rigorous research, analysing how business practices and policies impact people. This insight lays the foundation for advocacy and reform.
- Amplify – We bring consumer voices to the forefront, ensuring lived experiences shape policy decisions. Our research is transformed into clear, accessible insights shared through media and strategic engagement.
- Galvanise – We collaborate with policymakers, regulators, industry, and community groups to turn research into action. By bridging policy gaps with evidence-based solutions, we create lasting change.
Together, we work towards fairer markets, stronger consumer protections, and better business practices for all Australians.
Download CPRC Theory of Change
We are a charity accredited by Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission
