Measuring What Matters

Policy topic: Economy

In short

‘Measuring What Matters’ is Australia’s first national wellbeing framework.

It tracks our progress towards a more healthy, secure, sustainable, cohesive and prosperous Australia.

Many countries now use wellbeing frameworks, not just Gross Domestic Product (GDP), to measure progress.

See the Measuring What Matters Framework

Wellbeing themes

The Measuring What Matters Framework (framework) has 5 wellbeing themes.

Each theme is explained by 12 parts called dimensions, with 50 indicators to show how we’re doing over time.

Fairness, inclusion and equity are important in all parts of the framework.

Healthy

A healthy society means people:

  • feel well and are in good physical and mental health
  • can get health services when needed
  • have the information they need to improve their health.

Secure

A secure society means people:

  • have peaceful lives
  • feel safe
  • have enough money and a place to live.

Sustainable

A sustainable society:

  • uses natural and financial resources carefully
  • protects and repairs the environment
  • is ready for future challenges.

Cohesive

A cohesive society:

  • helps people stay connected with family, friends and the community
  • values diversity
  • promotes belonging and culture.

Prosperous

A prosperous society:

  • has a strong economy
  • invests in education and skills
  • gives people access to well-paid, secure jobs.

Measuring What Matters dashboard

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) maintains an online dashboard that provides annual progress updates.

Visit the ABS website to view the Measuring What Matters dashboard

Measuring What Matters Statement

The Measuring What Matters Statement was released in 2023. It was the first iteration of Australia's national wellbeing framework.

See the Measuring What Matters Statement

Treasury’s role

Treasury maintains the framework, including:

  • selecting indicators and metrics
  • working with the government to look for opportunities to use the framework for decision making.

Evolution of the framework

Measuring What Matters is a living framework. It will evolve and improve over time to reflect:

  • ongoing feedback from the community
  • new research
  • improved data availability
  • changing community views.

We’re looking for opportunities to:

  • embed the framework into government decision making
  • inform policy development and evaluation.

The framework could also help different levels of government to work together on policy.

The framework’s usefulness goes beyond government. It’s designed to support business, academia, and the community to create better lives for all Australians.

Feedback on the framework

You can provide comments or feedback by emailing measuringwhatmatters@treasury.gov.au

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