Research in the news

New projections reveal how Sydney's growing population will impact the city's shared infrastructure and amenities. Professor Christopher Pettit from the City Futures Research Centre suggests implementing better medium-density housing solutions and revising strata complexes to include green spaces.

A new report has revealed that rough sleepers in regional areas across Australia has risen by 51% since 2020. Lead author Professor Hal Pawson from the City Futures Research Centre attributes this to the ongoing housing crisis and insufficient social housing, stressing the urgent need for comprehensive policy changes.

New South Wales has become the fourth state or territory in Australia to conduct a trial on pill testing at music festivals. Professor Alison Ritter from the Social Policy Research Centre explains how the evidence supports this harm reduction strategy, noting that "introducing pill testing does not encourage drug use."

Speaking to the findings from his new report, The Australian Homelessness Monitor, Professor Hal Pawson from the City Futures Research Centre explains that "many support agencies are at a breaking point" and "operating in a completely clogged system."

Professor Alison Ritter from the Social Policy Research Centre weighs in on a new pill testing trial set to roll out at festivals throughout summer. She explains how it represents "a huge window of opportunity" for harm reduction and education [timestamp 2:05:20].

Can building above existing height restrictions help address the housing crisis? Professor Hal Pawson from the City Futures Research Centre unpacks how a new proposal for higher density housing represents "unexploited potential" for shopping centre stakeholders, overseas investors and developers [timestamp 04:41].

Professor Hal Pawson from the City Futures Research Centre reflects on the proposal to build apartments atop Westfield shopping centres nationwide. He weighs up the potential opportunities and considerations in addressing the housing supply shortage.

How can we better support the 400,000 people living with dementia in Australia? Dr Gail Kenning from the School of Art & Design discusses the innovative technology behind the AI character Viv. Developed by women with lived experience, Gail highlights how Viv addresses complex emotional needs and offers practical guidance [timestamp 1:13:38].

Dr Edgar Liu from the City Futures Research Centre discusses the history and recent resurgence of multigenerational living. He reflects on the financial and caregiving benefits of such arrangements, as well as potential legal pitfalls [timestamp 1:38:59]. 

The lead author of the Australian Homelessness Monitor report, Professor Hal Pawson from the City Futures Research Centre, points out that "housing affordability stress is the identified main factor triggering homelessness". He also calls for a greater commitment than the federal government's current housing program.

Dr Chris Hartley from the City Futures Research Centre describes the lack of social and affordable housing, highlighting the precarious implications for people experiencing homelessness. He points out that "there's no way for them to exit the system" [timestamp 1:48:04].

A new report reveals that homelessness in Australia is on the rise, while support services and social housing are failing to meet the growing need. Professor Hal Pawson from the City Futures Research Centre highlights that rent inflation has "definitely pushed a lot of people into a riskier situation, or into homelessness."

How should academically gifted students be taught in classrooms? Dr Geraldine Townend from the School of Education argues that without tailored support and resources, "very often these students switch off" and fail to reach their full potential.

Professor David Miller from the School of Humanities & Languages describes the prospect of moving the prized Boulton & Watt steam engine from the Powerhouse Museum as "distressing." He emphasises its historical significance and the challenges involved in relocating such a valuable piece of technology.

Troy Rainbow from the School of Art & Design presents his immersive artworks, which invite audiences to confront experiences of psychosis. Drawing from his lived experience, Troy explains how he blends innovative technologies like virtual reality with theatre to embody the "interior journey" [timestamp 33:20].