Selecting a Thinker

Anyone can nominate a Thinker in Residence. Our office receives suggestions from politicians, government employees, local government, business organisations and the general public.

In addition we keep a close eye on what’s important to the State, and see where a Thinker may be able to bridge a gap. Government policy such as the State Reform Agenda, South Australia’s Strategic Plan and the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide is regularly assessed to see what our key challenges are and to understand new directions the government might be taking.

In planning future residencies the Thinkers program tries to address a balance of issues or types of challenges, from health and wellbeing, governance, justice and social inclusion, education and early-childhood, science and technology, social innovation, vibrant cities and regions, environment and the arts.

Once a Thinker has been identified their calibre and suitability is thoroughly researched, their availability determined and a proposed program is investigated.

To move from a good idea to a viable residency, a number of partners must commit their time, expertise and funds. These partners, from the public and private sectors, play a key role in setting the residency’s objectives, forming the content and making sure the Thinker’s residency moves from thoughts to actions. All residencies must be approved by the Premier.

The process from the proposal of a Thinker through to their first visit may take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years.

Two examples of the selection process are:

• The Minister for Transport suggested in 2009 that a Thinker in Residence on road safety could assist South Australia to overcome its stalled progress on lowering the road toll; two world leaders from best-performing countries were considered and Professor Fred Wegman was selected in 2010.

• The Australian Industry Group (AiGroup) identified that Professor Göran Roos would make a valuable contribution to planning our manufacturing future and to advance individual company capacity, in light of rapid global changes in manufacturing.  In response, the Department of Trade and Economic Development nominated Professor Roos and the nomination was successful.