One of the key areas of focus is climate change, where UniSC experts, including Professor David Schoeman, offer insights and strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. Through workshops and conferences hosted on campus, and collaborative citizen science projects, UniSC helps policymakers understand the scientific basis of climate change and develop effective policies to address environmental challenges. For example:

• The 2023 Australian Citizen Science Association Conference was held at UniSC and included workshops and presentations from UniSC staff and students
• The K’gari Land and Sea Country: djaa-ngarawinj 2023 Conference was held in partnership with K'gari defenders organisation FIDO and the QLD Department of Environment and Science at UniSC’s Fraser Coast campus. It provided an opportunity for UniSC academics to share their research, and for Traditional Owners to share their knowledge of K’gari and surrounding Sea Country in the presence of the state government.

In the realm of economics, UniSC conducts continuing education programs and provides resources to help lawmakers grasp complex economic concepts and their implications for policy. These initiatives include lectures on economic theory, practical workshops on data analysis, and discussions on the economic impacts of various policy decisions. By equipping policymakers with a robust understanding of economics, UniSC ensures that they can make informed decisions that promote sustainable economic growth and development.

UniSC also plays a significant role in law education for policymakers. The university offers specialized courses and training programs that cover the latest developments in legal frameworks and technological advancements. These programs are designed to help lawmakers stay abreast of new technologies and their regulatory implications, ensuring that legislation keeps pace with innovation. Additionally, UniSC’s legal experts provide guidance on crafting laws that protect public interests while fostering technological progress.

UniSC collaborates with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) on several research initiatives aimed at improving community safety and police wellbeing. One notable collaboration is the MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration, which focuses on road safety and impaired driving laws. This partnership involves high-level, applied research to enhance the safety of Queensland’s road users.

UniSC researchers are also involved in projects that address lawmakers/police officer wellbeing, including studies on protective factors against burnout. These projects examine aspects such as psychosocial safety climate, stress mindset, and workplace climate to develop strategies that support police officers’ mental health and resilience. These collaborations highlight UniSC’s commitment to using research to inform and improve public safety policies and practices in partnership with the Queensland Police Service.

Addressing migration and displacement, UniSC provides comprehensive education and training to policymakers on the social, economic, and legal aspects of these issues. The university’s programs include case studies, policy analysis, and scenario planning exercises that help lawmakers understand the complexities of migration and develop humane and effective policies. By fostering a deep understanding of migration dynamics, UniSC supports the creation of policies that protect the rights of migrants and promote social cohesion.

Summary

UniSC is deeply committed to providing outreach, general education, upskilling, and capacity-building to policy and lawmakers on a variety of critical topics.

More information

• Australian Citizen Science Association Conference
• Symposium to focus on K’gari’s seascapes and iconic marine species
• Office of Engagement
• MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration