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Equity, security & prosperity

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sumptuous summer beach scene featuring a busy tamarama beach and clear blue water

We believe that social cohesion, quality of life, and trustworthy institutions are the fundamental elements of societal stability and security. »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ works to bridge divides, foster inclusive communities, and build a world that is fairer and more prosperous.ÌýÌý

We face generational challenges and, therefore, a tremendous opportunity for leadership. How we respond to climate change, disruptive technologies, globalised economies and shifting geopolitical alliances will lay the foundation for our future.

Our researchers are examining the ways in which injustice and inequality are embedded in society. From affordable housing to the cost of living and criminal justice, we bring together experts in law, economics, engineering and social sciences to reimagine the systems that have long seemed immovable. Our goal is that younger generations will have the same, if not better, opportunities as their parents and grandparents by charting a path toward sustainable development and instilling accountability into institutions at all levels.

»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ has the advantage of being at the forefront of emerging technologies and innovative thinking. We believe in the power of knowledge and aim to build societal resilience through education and engagement. On a local level, this means contributing to job creation, the skilling of workers, particularly in new industries, and a sustainable increase in productivity. We equip the next generation of leaders with empathy and adaptability. We embrace Indigenous knowledge systems to transform the way we manage land, fire and water. From agriculture to medicine and energy, we are strengthening our sovereign capability and growing domestic expertise.

On the global stage, »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ is putting into practice its commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We work with partners to address the root causes of forced migration, including climate displacement, armed conflict, persecution and economic hardship. We collaborate with policymakers to fortify our constitutional democracy against corruption and protect consumer rights. We also recognise the role of the business community to address environmental, social, and governance goals - from the efficient use of natural resources and waste to ethical management and equal opportunities in the workplace.

We believe it is the perfect moment in time to shape our long-term national development and, through research and collaboration, create a better world for the generations to come.

Areas of expertise

The below strengths represent a snapshot of our expertise but are by no means an exhaustive list. If you have a specific research area of interest or project that is not represented here, please get in touch so that we can find an expert(s) to best match your needs.

Australian flag at the Parliament building at Canberra, ACT, Australia
<p>Leadership &amp; governance</p>

This diverse portfolio can roughly be divided into government and corporate spheres, and includes the many places where the two interact, such as addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Corporate Social Responsibility. We're advocates for systemic law reform and think deeply about democracy, public law, constitutional law and the recognition of First Nations. We also have expertise in corporate governance and regularly consult with businesses on matters such as corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, FinTech, digital currencies, the sharing economy and big data.

A/Prof. Kevin Lowe at Tweed Learning from Country
Indigenous knowledges &amp; culture
»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ researchers and Indigenous knowledge holders are working on ethical ways to integrate Traditional and Western scientific knowledge systems across all parts of society. We contribute to environmental protection, education, law and health, with research that spans land management, bushfires, truth telling and the creation of inclusive places through “country sensing designâ€. Our researchers are particularly interested in bringing Aboriginal perspectives into mainstream educational practices.
A cargo ship loaded with green and yellow containers makes its may across a vast ocean.
Economy &amp; cost of living
We bring together experts in business, economics, law, and social policy to understand the complex currents that move the Australian economy. Our research explores the distribution of wealth, consumer prices, housing (especially for renters), taxation, energy and labour markets. We are also interested in incentive mechanisms for businesses to achieve environmental, social, governance (ESG) objectives not only to enhance corporate performance, but also to build a more sustainable economy.
Satelite image Australia
Defence

»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ researchers work at the nexus of law, media, technology and culture to enhance Australia’s national defence and security capabilities. From counterterrorism to the treatment of PTSD, we understand the human cost of conflict and draw from deep expertise in international law, politics, human rights and dispute resolution in the Asia-Pacific. »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ has an emphasis on cyber security and intelligence, leveraging psycholinguistics to improve the detection and countering of mis/disinformation across the globe. Our researchers collaborate with government and industry to develop technology like hypersonic systems, remote sensing, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and satellite constellations.

Thousands of new Rohingya refugee arrivals cross the border near Anzuman Para village, Palong Khali, Bangladesh.
Human rights
»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ believes in dignity, freedom, and equality for all people. We are leaders in policy and action on the issues of gender equality, Indigenous People’s rights, criminal justice reform, anti-discrimination and accessibility laws. On the world stage, we contribute to global policy by promoting humane solutions for refugees in Australia and abroad. This area of research integrates international human rights law and treaties with the complex environmental, political, and social factors that force migration.
»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ students in Uganda
Education
We work with students, teachers and institutions to integrate research- informed philosophies, practices and administration into the educational system. »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ highlights the importance of interpersonal interactions and psychological characteristics, like motivation and adaptability, for both teacher and student development. This means understanding social contexts, wellbeing, engagement and achievement, and how to reach people on an individual level. We also have pioneering programs establishing Aboriginal language policy in school curriculum and Indigenous pathways in higher education.

»Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ Future Defence & Security

In 2024, »Ê¹Ú²ÊƱ hosted theÌýFutures Expo Series to showcase research aligned with theÌýÌýpriority areas. The events brought together businesses, investors, and government to explore collaboration opportunities with our leading innovation community.

Missed the series? Don’t worry. You can dive into the insights and opportunities captured in our themed Futures Expo booklets.

Case studies