Overview
Superpower Institute is an Australian not-for-profit think tank established in 2023 by economist Ross Garnaut and public policy expert Rod Sims. It focuses on positioning Australia as a leader in the post-carbon global economy. Its overarching purpose is to help the country realise economic opportunities linked to net zero transition.
Mission and focus areas
Superpower Institute’s mission is to support Australia in capturing the economic advantages of a decarbonised world through policy research and analysis. Its work centres on renewable energy, green hydrogen, minerals processing, and zero-emissions exports such as green iron and aluminium.
The organisation also focuses on enabling conditions including carbon pricing, trade policy and regional development. Through these areas, it contributes to climate policy, sustainable economic growth and the broader transition to a low-carbon economy aligned with ESG and sustainability objectives.
Structure and governance
Superpower Institute operates as an independent research organisation led by a small executive and board. Leadership includes a chair and director, supported by a chief executive and subject-matter experts in economics, climate science and public policy.
Its governance model draws on expertise from academia, government and industry, enabling collaboration with policymakers and stakeholders. This structure supports evidence-based policy development and engagement with national climate and economic strategies.
Programs and offerings
Superpower Institute produces policy reports, submissions and analysis aimed at informing government and industry decision-making. It also develops open data initiatives, such as platforms tracking electricity markets and methane emissions, to improve transparency and accountability.
Additional outputs include public commentary, events, and educational content that support informed debate on climate policy and green industry development. These resources are designed to provide practical insights for stakeholders involved in energy transition and sustainable finance.
Support our Mission
The Superpower Institute’s mission is to help Australia seize the extraordinary opportunities of the post-carbon world.
Your gift will support:
- Research and analysis on the economic and climate benefits of Australia-based green iron and other energy intensive export industries
- Activities aimed at building consensus among decision makers to champion Australia’s rapid transition to a post-carbon economy
- Public communications that ‘change the narrative’, and promote a positive story around Australia’s economic growth and climate goals
