United Nations Sustainable Development
Goal 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions
Participation in government research. Undertake policy-focused research in collaboration with government departments.
UniSC actively engages in policy-focused research, collaborating with various government departments to address pressing societal challenges. One prominent area of collaboration is in environmental sustainability and climate change. UniSC researchers work closely with government agencies to develop and implement policies aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change. This includes projects that assess the effectiveness of conservation strategies, study the effects of climate change on marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and develop adaptive management plans to protect biodiversity.
In the field of public health, UniSC collaborates with government health departments to improve community health outcomes. Researchers at UniSC’s Thompson Institute, for example, conduct groundbreaking research on mental health, including studies on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide prevention. These research initiatives provide valuable data and insights that inform public health policies and programs, ensuring they are evidence-based and effective.
UniSC also partners with government departments on economic and social policy research. This includes projects that analyze the economic impacts of policy decisions, study social issues such as housing affordability and homelessness, and evaluate the effectiveness of social services. By providing rigorous, data-driven analysis, UniSC helps policymakers develop strategies that promote economic growth and social equity.
UniSC’s research in technology and innovation supports government efforts to foster technological advancement and digital transformation. Collaborations in this area include studies on cybersecurity, digital literacy, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies. These partnerships ensure that government policies are informed by the latest research and are designed to harness the benefits of technological innovation while addressing potential risks.
UniSC’s involvement in the Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) initiative has led to policy advancements in sustainable forestry management. With over $24 million in federal government funding, UniSC’s research has contributed to developing policies that promote sustainable forestry practices, address climate change impacts, and integrate First Nations knowledge into land management strategies. These efforts have resulted in more effective and sustainable forestry policies at both state and national government levels.
Summary
Through these collaborative efforts with government, UniSC demonstrates its commitment to using research to inform and improve public policy, ultimately contributing to the wellbeing of communities and the environment.