This article presents a brief overview of the processes that characterise policy formation, particularly within both political and bureaucratic contexts. Historically, anthropologists are shown to have been influential in relation to political policy formation as it relates to indigenous Australians. While such influence may now be in decline, anthropologists continue to play an important role in the development of public policy. Three case studies illustrate the interface between research and public policy formation. The article argues for the development of a more critical sociological appreciation of the policy development process in order that anthropologists can maximise their contribution in this area.
