Silent Invasion: China's Influence in Australia

This book provides the most comprehensive study of the Australian think-tank industry to date. Drawing on empirical evidence, it first assesses the structure of the industry, the methods think tanks use to persuade policymakers, and public perceptions of their effectiveness. The book then proceeds to examine three unique policy cases to analyse think tank influence on policymaking. It argues that whilst think tanks play important roles in Australia’s policy process, their impacts vary depending on their approach and objectives. The book also demonstrates that policymakers with contrasting ideological orientations diverge in their assessments of the utility and influence of think tanks. It will appeal to students and scholars of public policy, and practitioners in public administration and governance.

“This ambitious study reshapes our understanding of the history and impact of multinational firms in Australia, and skillfully weaves the local story into a global framework.” – Professor Geoff Jones, Harvard Business School

“In this path-breaking work, Song and McCarthy offer a theoretical framework that highlights how racialized governing practices and effects have been central to the constitution of new international education landscapes. Anyone who works in the area of international education will have to engage with the provocative and stimulating arguments of this book.”