The Centre of Policy Studies (CoPS), incorporating the Impact Project, specialises in computable general equilibrium (CGE) modelling. The centre:
- undertakes academic/contract research and software development
- conducts training courses in CGE modelling and
- also, offers graduate student supervision.
On an international level, CoPS has developed modelling techniques that cover South Africa, Vietnam, Taiwan, Thailand, China and the USA. A generic single-country model called ORANI-G has been developed to serve as a pattern on which to base models of other countries.
The CoPS’ suite of Australian models includes:
- MONASH, a detailed, dynamic CGE model of Australia, has been used to analyse many economic policies, including changes in taxes, tariffs, environmental regulations and competition policy.
- MMRF-Green has been used to analyse greenhouse issues, and to forecast future greenhouse emissions and energy usage by state.
- TERM is a useful tool for examining the impacts of shocks that affect specific regions, e.g., drought.
CoPS modelling relies on the software, known as GEMPACK, developed at the unit, and used in over 400 other locations in 60 countries.