The Pacific Ocean covers a third of the surface of the planet and contains thousands of islands, most settled by people long before their discovery by Europeans. An almost unmatched diversity of cultures across a diversity of island types has created unique challenges that our Centre seeks to address.
Living mostly in rural coastal communities, the livelihoods of Pacific peoples are increasingly threatened by climate change and natural disasters. While acknowledging the deep-rooted cultural resilience of Pacific communities, future challenges are unprecedented and are in many places amplified by health concerns arising from recently changed diets and livelihoods.
The Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research (ACPIR) is concerned with developing practical evidence-based solutions in collaboration with Pacific peoples to address such concerns, and develop sustainable pathways for the futures to which they aspire.
Research areas
Sustainable production systems
Most Pacific Islanders source their livelihoods from the land or sea. Agriculture and aquaculture production are essential to economic development, sustainability and livelihoods.
Environmental sustainability
Sustaining the viability of island environments is about survival. The ability of Pacific Islanders to sustain livelihoods has been repeatedly challenged by extreme events and longer-term impacts of climate change.
Peoples and cultures
Understanding Pacific peoples and cultures enriches us all. In an era where globalisation is forcing ever greater cultural homogeneity, the importance of understanding diversity and its roots in history and circumstance is clear.
Nutrition and health
Food environments in the Pacific have changed dramatically in recent times. Understanding food environments and dietary behaviours in the Pacific Islands informs strategies to improve health in those communities.
Contact us
For more information and to meet the ACPIR team, please visit our contact page for details
To contact key members directly, visit their page by clicking on their profile.
For all enquiries, including membership details, email ACPIR@usc.edu.au
Research students
The ACPIR provides supervision and exciting opportunities for postgraduate research students and undergraduate students, including ACPIR's new Summer Research Scholarship - find out more about studying with us.
USC Pasifika Association
USCPA is a new club being developed by like-minded Pasifika students and mentors to create a safe, diverse and inclusive community focused on supporting and empowering Pasifika students and their communities. For enquiries about membership email: pasifikaassoc@usc.edu.au