Overview

Interdepartmental committees and units can expect to have different degrees of success in providing potential solutions to coordinating government policies and operating intersectorally. There is variable scope for them to contribute to a range of governance outcomes, including evidence, coordination, advocacy, monitoring, guidance development and implementation. The appeal of interdepartmental committees and units is that they work within the government bureaucracy, do not require significant costs or reorganisation, can work with departments over time, and can apply sustained pressure. They can work in multiple situations but are less useful in resolving political conflict.