This episode kicks off our miniseries on reimagining social policy. Sharon Bessell sits on the other side of the mic to give her insights into how Australia ended up in the position it is, the commodification of public policy and how child poverty became acceptable in society. She talks about the policy history that allowed Robodebt to be accepted, the current PwC scandal, and how this is all a part of a bigger picture of Australia’s step backwards in helping those in need. Sharon also gives us hope that we’re now seeing a shift away from this style of policy, towards a wellbeing and care economy. If done right, she says, it’s a once in a generation chance to make a difference, especially to the lives of children. Sharon Bessell is a Professor of Public Policy and Director of both the Children’s Policy Centre and the Poverty and Inequality Research Centre at ANU Crawford School of Public Policy.  Arnagretta Hunter is the Human Futures Fellow at ANU College of Health and Medicine, a cardiologist, physician, and a Senior Clinical Lecturer at ANU Medical School.You can find full show notes on the Crawford School of Public Policy LinkedIn account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.