9 Learning from the evidence about evidence-based policy

From the long history of efforts to improve policy by drawing systematically on evidence about effectiveness, a number of recommendations can be made. The approach to evidence-based policy needs to be matched to each particular situation, especially in terms of whether the intervention has complicated or complex aspects. The quality of evidence about effectiveness should be judged not by whether it has used a particular methodology, but whether it has systematically checked internal and external validity, including paying attention to differential effects. The availability of evidence can be improved through supporting the different processes of knowledge transfer, knowledge translation and ongoing knowledge generation. Transparent processes of generating and using evidence are needed, including access to data to allow reviews of its quality and of the conclusions drawn. Important lessons should be drawn from the long history of efforts, in Australia an