In 2023, UniSC provided expert advice to various levels of Australian government on several critical issues. Here are a few examples:

1. Sustainability Initiatives: UniSC has been a leader in sustainability, significantly contributing to policy discussions on environmental issues. For example, UniSC collaborates with the Australian Academy of Science’s Future Earth Australia to advance sustainability and equality in Australia and the region. Future Earth Australia is a national platform that provides expert advice from researchers to governments, industry, and society. Hosted by the Australian Academy of Science, it serves as a national node in the global Future Earth network, fostering collaboration and innovation in sustainability research and practice. Professor Tim Smith was on the Expert Working Group for the “Sustainable Oceans and Coasts National Strategy”.
2. Australian Universities Accord: UniSC actively participated in the Australian Universities Accord discussion, providing expert feedback on various aspects of higher education policy. Our submission, led by Professor Helen Bartlett emphasized the importance of sustainable regional universities, student participation and attainment, and research and innovation. This input has been crucial in shaping national policies aimed at improving the higher education sector.
3. The Pēpi-Pod® Program from the School of Health is a significant initiative aimed at reducing the risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI), particularly among Indigenous Australian communities. This program provides portable sleep spaces, known as Pēpi-Pods®, which offer a safe sleeping environment for infants. These pods are designed to protect infants’ airways and reduce the risk of accidental suffocation, while also respecting cultural practices of co-sleeping. The Queensland Government’s involvement includes funding and policy support, which has enabled the program to reach a wider audience and have a more substantial impact. UniSC researchers are now developing a framework for a Queensland-wide implementation over an eight year program, with recommendations made to the Queensland Government.
4. Climate change is a pressing global issue, characterized by rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and increasing sea levels, all of which have profound impacts on ecosystems and human societies. Professor David Schoeman, a distinguished expert at the UniSC, specializes in marine climate-change ecology and climate-smart conservation planning. His research focuses on understanding the ecological consequences of climate change on marine organisms and ecosystems, and developing strategies to mitigate these impacts. Professor Schoeman has played a pivotal role in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), helping to shape global climate policies. His work is crucial in advancing our understanding of climate change and informing effective conservation efforts.

Summary

These examples highlight UniSC’s active role in providing expert advice to government across all levels, ensuring that policies are informed by cutting-edge research and expert knowledge. This engagement underscores the university’s commitment to contributing to the public good and supporting informed decision-making at various levels of government.

More information

• Sustainable Oceans and Coasts National Strategy 2021-2030
• The Pēpi-Pod® Program
• Professor David Schoeman
• The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change