The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) actively provides outreach, education, and capacity-building initiatives to inform policy makers and stakeholders on critical issues such as economics, law, technology, migration and displacement, and climate change. These efforts are embedded in UniSC’s research and engagement strategies and delivered through multiple channels:

Outreach

UniSC hosts policy forums, webinars, and roundtables that bring together academics, government representatives, and industry leaders to discuss emerging challenges in technology, climate change, and social policy.

1. Reshaping Trauma: PTSD Panel Discussion

Date: 6 November 2024

Details: Led by ABC broadcaster Dr Norman Swan, this panel explored the latest PTSD research and treatment approaches, with implications for mental health policy and service delivery.

2. Robotics in Agriculture – Emerging Technologies Showcase

Date: 14 November 2024

Details: Featured live demonstrations of robotic technologies and a discussion on automation, AI, and policy impacts on agricultural innovation and workforce development.

3. Moreton Bay Eco Fest

Date: 9 November 2024

Details: A sustainability-focused event with experts and community organisations discussing climate action, environmental policy, and practical strategies for sustainable living.

4. Pacific Seminar Series – Climate Resilience Pathways

Date: April 29–May 1 2024

Details: Hosted by the Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research, this seminar addressed water security, climate adaptation, and migration challenges, informing regional and national policy frameworks.

5. Water Security Research for Coastal Relocation

Date: July 2024 (Research-led event)

Details: UniSC launched a $2.25M project to support policy-led relocation of Pacific communities affected by rising sea levels, engaging governments and agencies in evidence-based planning.

General education

UniSC provides general education and professional development opportunities for policy- and law-makers through a range of programs and initiatives.

• The Graduate Certificate in Professional Studies offers flexible learning for leaders and managers across sectors, focusing on applied research, governance, and strategic decision-making.
• UniSC’s Master of Public Policy and Master of Business Administration (MBA) include core courses in leadership, economics, governance, and policy analysis, designed to accommodate working professionals seeking to enhance their analytical and research skills.
• Additionally, the Graduate Diploma in Migration Law and Practice equips students with the knowledge required to become registered migration agents in Australia, addressing critical issues of migration and displacement.
• UniSC also delivers short courses and microcredentials in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence and Ethics, Cybersecurity, and Data Privacy, enabling professionals to understand the governance and regulatory implications of technology.

These programs collectively support capacity-building for decision-makers in government and industry, ensuring they are equipped to respond to complex challenges in law, economics, technology, and climate policy.

Economics and Policy

UniSC Business School collaborates with local councils and regional development bodies to provide economic modelling and policy advice. For example, UniSC researchers have contributed to economic impact studies for regional growth strategies in the Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay regions.

Law and Governance

The School of Law and Society engages with government agencies through legal research on human rights, environmental law, and governance frameworks. UniSC academics regularly provide submissions to parliamentary inquiries and host policy roundtables on justice reform and Indigenous legal issues.

Migration and Displacement - Through research in social resilience and disaster recovery, UniSC partners with NGOs and government agencies to address migration and displacement caused by climate events. Findings are shared via policy briefs and community workshops, shaping inclusive resettlement strategies.

Climate Change and Sustainability

The Sustainability Research Centre leads projects on climate adaptation, coastal resilience, and biodiversity conservation, providing evidence-based recommendations to local and state governments. UniSC also hosts annual climate forums that bring together policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders.

Capacity building

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

Office of Engagement