Public Sector, Policy & Finance

Independent Policy Analysis

Our public sector, policy and finance team offers independent public policy analysis for clients across the public, private and community sectors.

We provide authoritative, evidence-based research, analysis, and advice across a range of specialist areas.

Sapere is an approved provider for All of Government (New Zealand), for whole of government panels in New South Wales and Victoria, and other government panels across Australia.

What we do

Our experts possess a comprehensive and hands-on understanding of policy development and assessment. Many of our team have held senior positions within government in Australia and New Zealand.

We leverage this expert knowledge to deliver practical and robust analysis, helping our clients navigate complex public policy issues and drive positive change.

Clear problem definition, using analytical frameworks and intervention logic
In-depth literature reviews and environmental scanning
Robust regulatory impact statements, cost-benefit and quantitative analysis
Tailored stakeholder engagement
Thorough business case development. Our team are well-versed in the New Zealand Treasury Better Business Case method, and similar methods in other jurisdictions
Rigorous evaluation and monitoring
Expert organisational and baseline reviews
First-hand experience in budget and financial management.

Examples of our work in Public Sector, Policy and Finance

Sapere has a strong track record of providing research and advice to public sector clients across New Zealand and Australian federal and state governments.

We also have experts who are well-versed in conducting strategic baseline and organisational reviews.

Our approach is collaborative and supports evidence-based decision-making and effective implementation.

Some examples include:

Strategic baseline review of the Electricity Authority in New Zealand
Development of a prototype toolkit tracking the distributional impacts of the transition to a low-emissions future in New Zealand
Development of a rapid cost-benefit analysis and regulatory impact statement on proposed Energy Performance Ratings and Waste Management Plans in New Zealand
Leading the development of the indicative and detailed business cases for a major investment in the redevelopment of the Dunedin Hospital campus
Cost-benefit analysis of the proposed extension of the runway at Wellington International Airport
Evaluation of the wider socio-economic impacts of Ultrafast Broadband in New Zealand
Literature review of incentives for providers and health systems to reduce patient harm
Construction of a detailed costing model to inform the development and roll-out of the National Bowel Screening Programme in New Zealand
Delivering a formative evaluation of a pilot programme to assist Māori who have exhibited harmful behaviours, using a kaupapa Māori approach.

We have helped clients with problems at different stages of the policy cycle, from defining the policy problem, designing and analysing the options for solutions, modelling costs and benefits, to reviewing the programme or policy once in place.

Our knowledge of the practicalities of policymaking is combined with a thorough understanding of the range of approaches commonly used to develop and assess public policy and regulatory development.

Key contacts

David Moore

Managing Director
WELLINGTON
dmoore@thinkSapere.com

Melissa Skilbeck

Director
MELBOURNE
mskilbeck@thinkSapere.com

Dr Vijaya Ramamurthy

Kieran Murray

Managing Director
AUCKLAND
kmurray@thinkSapere.com

Sally Carrick

Director
MELBOURNE
scarrick@thinkSapere.com

David Graham

Managing Director
MELBOURNE
dgraham@thinkSapere.com

Matt Balmford

Director
MELBOURNE
mbalmford@thinkSapere.com

Some of our recent articles of interest

Staff spotlight – Sue Friend

This month we spotlight Sue Friend, a Managing Director in our Forensics team. Sue shares her love of the outdoors and hiking and finds this brings balance to her work at Sapere.

Thinking about utility customer engagement

In this article Dr Richard Tooth examines developments in how regulated utilities engage with their customers, the problem of uninformed respondent bias and other issues.

Sunset review of the regulations for Victorian private health service establishments

Client: Victorian Department of Health

This report analyses proposed changes to Victoria's Health Service Establishment Regulations, focusing on improving clinical governance, safety, and quality. The RIS reviewed the impact of these changes and provided recommendations.

Staff spotlight – Dr Jamie O’Hare

This month, we spotlight Dr Jamie O'Hare, Managing Economist and proud new dad to baby Stirling, as he shares his professional insights and personal joys.

Distilling success for Victorian spirit exports

Client: Agriculture Victoria

The Australian craft distillery sector has grown significantly, with Victoria now having 188 distilleries. Sapere, commissioned by Agriculture Victoria, identified priority markets and developed market entry strategies for Victorian spirit exporters.

Staff spotlight – Jeremy Thorpe

Sapere welcomes Jeremy Thorpe, our new Director, recently featured in the Australian Financial Review. Kicking off our staff spotlight series, Jeremy generously shared fascinating insights into his career and background.

Unveiling the intrinsic value of nature

Explore the value of nature beyond its aesthetic appeal. Environmental valuation frameworks and techniques allow us to understand the economic value of nature and make informed decisions in environmental policy and management.

How can governments effectively assess and manage climate risk to ensure a sustainable future?

Client: Department of Treasury (Western Australia)

Sapere provided expert advice on the design of a Climate Risk Framework for the WA government, exploring options for a staged approach, and aligning with international standards for climate risk disclosure, to support Western Australia's climate resilience efforts.