Matt Ryan is a researcher and advocate for democratic innovation, citizen participation and evidence-based policy making, with a track record of impactful contributions across local and global spheres.
His research has earned recognition that includes a Chancellor’s Letter of Commendation, The Bill Brugger Prize and a first-class Honours degree from Flinders University and a PhD Research Impact Award at the University of South Australia.
As Deputy Chief of Staff to a South Australian Premier, Matt led a pioneering program of democratic innovation experiments, including major citizens' juries and participatory budgeting projects, which garnered international acclaim.
In his role as Senior Fellow at The Governance Lab (USA), Matt has prepared international reports and developed courses that support public servants worldwide to adopt innovative and participatory problem-solving techniques.
Beyond his academic and professional endeavours, Matt is actively engaged in community activities, fostering collaborations and driving democratic movements in Australia and beyond.
Read more about Matt's work here.
Matt Ryan

