From major funding for the Sunshine Coast rail, to a cost-of-living crunch . . . University of the Sunshine Coast academics are available pre and post budget to offer insights on the implications for families, university students, and global relations.

Sunshine Coast Rail

The Federal Government has committed a further $1.15 billion towards the development of a Sunshine Coast rail line. What does this mean for tourism, transport and the future of the Sunshine Coast, which continues to be among the fastest-growing regions in Australia?

Dr Aaron Tham, Senior Lecturer in Tourism, Leisure and Event Management

E: [email protected]  Ph: +61 7 5456 5071

Dr Greg Mews, Lecturer in Urban Design and Town Planning

E: [email protected]   Ph: +61 7 5459 4683

Cost-of-living and economic outlook

Tax cuts, power bill relief and HECS indexation changes are among the announced measures designed to ease cost-of-living pressures, coupled with plans to curb inflation. What does this mean for Australians?

Dr Hammad Siddiqi, Senior Lecturer in Finance and Economics

E: [email protected]  Ph: +61 7 5459 4538

Financial support for prac placements

Students doing mandatory work placements in courses like nursing, teaching and midwifery will soon be eligible for financial support. Which students are eligible, who misses out, and is it enough to curb ‘placement poverty’?

Professor Deanna Grant-Smith, Professor of Management

E: [email protected] Ph: available by request

Domestic and family violence

Almost $1 billion has been promised over five years of extra financial support for people leaving violent situations, as well as new safety assessments and referrals to support services. What current support exists and how could this help?

Dr Zalia Powell, Lecturer in Social Work

E: [email protected]  Ph: +61 7 5456 3140

Foreign affairs

Defence spending is set to increase by $50 billion over the next ten years, while almost $500 million has been promised to development projects in the Indo-Pacific. What does this mean for Australia’s global position?

Dr Shannon Brincat, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations

E: [email protected] Ph: +61 7 5430 1193