Unifying complex government services into one coherent digital ecosystem.

The Department of Industry, Science and Resources leads national initiatives in innovation, energy, climate, technology and science. Over time, its digital presence expanded into a network of websites, sub-brands and portfolio agencies, each with their own navigation structures, design patterns and content types. Users often encountered inconsistent layouts and dense information pathways, making it difficult to find relevant policy, support programs or services. Content owners also struggled to maintain accessibility and consistency across entities with unique requirements. The challenge was clear: create a unified, accessible and scalable digital framework that supported more than 18 government entities, including CSIRO, IP Australia, Geoscience Australia and the Australian Space Agency, without erasing individual brand identity.

Working in collaboration with Tank’s content strategy and development teams, we interrogated existing information architecture to simplify complex content structures and reduce duplication. Using atomic design principles, we helped develop a universal design system that provided reusable components, templates and page patterns. This ensured consistency while giving each entity flexibility to express its purpose. Mobile-first layouts prioritised readability and wayfinding across hundreds of content types. Search and filtering tools improved navigation through dense documentation, helping users locate information quickly. Every component aligned to WCAG accessibility requirements and the Australian Government Digital Style Guide, ensuring clarity, legibility and usability across devices. Throughout the process, stakeholder workshops balanced brand ownership, technical feasibility and the behaviours of citizens interacting with the government online.

The resulting design system provides a shared visual language and interaction model for every agency within the department. Consistent navigation, hierarchy and component behaviour now scale predictably across entities, reducing friction for citizens and internal teams. A purpose-built style guide outlines UI patterns, typography rules and component behaviour, supporting developers with implementation at the most granular level. The work established a strong foundation for future government projects, improving public trust by making complex services more transparent, accessible and easier to navigate.