UniSC engages with local decision-makers through a collaborative and participatory approach in their Coastal Governance Project. This project involves working closely with local governments, community leaders, and stakeholders to develop and implement innovative coastal management strategies. By conducting semi-structured interviews and workshops with key informants from coastal management and community service sectors, UniSC gathers valuable insights into the vulnerabilities and needs of coastal communities. These interactions help ensure that the governance strategies developed are tailored to the specific contexts and challenges faced by each community.

UniSC also facilitates community discussions and provides decision-makers with comprehensive information on the effectiveness and ecological impacts of different coastal adaptation options. This approach helps bridge the gap between scientific research and practical implementation, enabling local authorities to make informed decisions that balance social, economic, and environmental considerations. Additionally, the project includes comparative case analyses, such as the study of regional disaster management in the Sunshine Coast, Australia, and Gotland, Sweden. This analysis provides a broader perspective on best practices and innovative solutions that can be adapted to local contexts.

UniSC hosts a range of disaster conferences, training and exercise preparedness for local government and emergency response services. In November 2024, the Sunshine Coast Police and partner agencies tested their emergency response capabilities on a simulated tsunami event at UniSC. The exercise provided the opportunity to evaluate disaster plans and community impacts. The exercise's aim was to enhance communication and coordination across local, district, and state disaster management teams.

Summary

Through these collaborative efforts, UniSC not only supports local decision-makers in developing effective coastal governance strategies but also fosters a sense of ownership and engagement within the communities. This participatory approach ensures that the solutions are sustainable and widely accepted, ultimately enhancing the resilience of coastal regions to climate change and other environmental challenges.

More information

• Sustainability Research Centre - Coastal Governance Project - Community support for coastal adaptation measures
• Sustainability Research Centre - Coastal Governance Project - Governance innovations in the coastal zone