Sustainable Development Goals at our University
In 2019, we signed the University Commitment which recognises the significant scope of work needed to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the important role university communities play in reaching these goals. We are committed to sustainability for ourselves, our surrounding communities, and the world.
The SDGs offer a shared framework for all levels of government, businesses, community groups and education organisations to prioritise action between 2015 to 2030, across environmental, socio-cultural and economic sustainability.
How we measure our impact for the SDGs
We use the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings (previously Impact Rankings) and other frameworks, such as the Sustainability Tracking Assessment and Rating System (STARS), to measure our progress towards sustainability. The THE Impact Ratings aim to evaluate university performance in relation to the SDGs.
SDG16 Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions aims to promote just, peaceful, and inclusive societies. Just societies can be achieved through reducing violence, corruption, exploitation, and abuse; developing effective, accountable, and transparent institutions; protecting fundamental freedoms and ensuring access to information and justice; and transparent and inclusive decision making. Achieving this goal will enable individuals to reach their full potential by improving educational outcomes, health, and well-being.
The University supports the implementation of this goal by valuing diversity and subscribing to the fundamental values of honesty, integrity, responsibility, trust, respect, fairness and justice. It supports healthy, civil, and sustainable local and global societies through education, research, and community engagement.
University governance measures
Elected representation
https://www.utas.edu.au/about/governance-leadership-and-strategy/governance/university-council
Students' union
https://tusa.org.au/about-the-tusa/
Local stakeholder engagement
The University of Tasmania works closely with communities, organisations and institutions across Tasmania, Australia and internationally. Engagement with external stakeholders is guided by University policies, governance processes, strategic priorities and partnership programs that support collaboration with local communities, Aboriginal stakeholders, industry, government, schools, not-for-profit organisations and regional partners. Through these frameworks, the University identifies key stakeholder groups, develops partnerships and maintains ongoing engagement to support educational, social, economic and environmental outcomes. Stakeholder engagement is embedded across University planning, sustainability initiatives, partnership management, teaching, research and community activities.
Strategic Plan: 2025 Refresh
The University of Tasmania Strategic Plan: 2025 Refresh places partnership and community connection at the centre of the University's mission. The Plan commits the University to working "in partnership with community, industry and government" to support positive outcomes in education, health, productivity and climate. It also describes the University as being "regionally networked 'with' and 'in' the community", recognising Tasmania's communities, governments, industries and educational institutions as essential partners in achieving the University's long-term aspirations. The Plan guides how the University builds and maintains relationships with stakeholders across the state and beyond.
Stewardship for Sustainability framework
The Stewardship for Sustainability framework integrates community engagement, partnerships and collaboration into its approach to sustainability. The framework recognises that sustainability outcomes are achieved through working alongside communities, government, industry, Aboriginal communities and other organisations. Sustainability is embedded across governance, teaching, research, community engagement and operations, with stakeholder perspectives informing decision-making and implementation. The framework supports ongoing collaboration with external stakeholders to advance shared sustainability goals.
Partnerships Governance
The University publicly documents its approach to stakeholder engagement through its Partnerships governance framework, including formal policies, procedures and governance instruments. The framework outlines how decisions about partnerships are made and managed. It provides guidance on who the University partners with, how partnerships are assessed and how they align with the University's mission, values and strategic priorities. These arrangements support consistent and transparent engagement with external organisations while ensuring partnerships contribute to community, educational and sustainability outcomes.
Partnerships Policy
The University's Partnerships Policy provides an overarching framework for identifying, assessing and engaging with external organisations and institutions, including local stakeholders. Partnership opportunities are considered in the context of the University's mission, values, sustainability commitments and strategic objectives. The policy includes processes for assessing prospective partners, approving partnership arrangements and reviewing ongoing collaborations, supporting engagement with community organisations, industry, government agencies and other stakeholders.
Partner with Us
The University's dedicated partnership portal, Partner with Us, provides a clear pathway for external organisations and community stakeholders to engage with the institution. The portal facilitates collaboration with community organisations, businesses, industry representatives and other partners, making it easier for external stakeholders to connect with relevant areas of expertise and explore partnership opportunities.
Our Communities as Partners
The University's Our Communities platform reflects its commitment to building strong and lasting relationships with the communities it serves. Through community engagement programs, regional initiatives, public participation in research, educational outreach and health programs, the University works with a wide range of stakeholder groups across Tasmania. These activities create opportunities for community participation, collaboration and shared learning.
Regional Partnerships
The University's Regional Partnerships program focuses on identifying and engaging with communities across Tasmania. Working alongside regional organisations, local leaders, industry groups and government agencies, the University supports initiatives that respond to local opportunities and challenges. The program strengthens connections between the University and regional Tasmania and promotes place-based approaches to education, research and community development.
Business, Industry and Government Partnerships
The University's Business, Industry and Government Partnerships platform provides a structured framework for engaging external stakeholders that contribute to Tasmania's economic, social and community development. The platform identifies business, industry and government organisations as priority stakeholder groups and facilitates collaboration across research, innovation, education and workforce development initiatives to address shared priorities and create mutual benefit.
Research Partnerships and Innovation
The University of Tasmania's Research Partnerships and Innovation platform provides a structured mechanism for engaging external stakeholders in research and knowledge exchange activities across a wide range of disciplines. Through dedicated partnership pathways, the University collaborates with industry, government, community organisations and other stakeholders to address shared challenges and create impact.
International Partnerships
The University's International Partnerships platform supports collaboration with universities, organisations and institutions around the world. Through these partnerships, the University creates opportunities for education, research and cultural exchange while applying consistent partnership principles across local, national and international engagement activities.
Participatory bodies for stakeholder engagement
The University of Tasmania values the perspectives of the communities it serves and maintains a range of formal governance and advisory structures that enable stakeholders to participate in University decision-making. Local residents, government representatives, community organisations, industry partners, alumni, students and staff contribute their knowledge, experience and perspectives through University Council (through the composition of University Council itself and the Stakeholder Engagement Framework), advisory committees, consultation processes and governance bodies. These forums help ensure that decisions about the University's strategic direction, educational offerings and community impact are informed by a diverse range of voices from across Tasmania and beyond.
University Council
As the governing body of the University of Tasmania, University Council is committed to meaningful and authentic stakeholder and community engagement to inform its decision making. Council includes members drawn from a broad range of stakeholder groups, including students, academic and professional staff, and external stakeholders from our local communities with strong connections to industries, regional development organisations, government sectors and community organisations. Through this diverse membership, Council brings together a wide range of perspectives to guide the University's strategic direction, governance and oversight. The University continues to strive for greater representation from key stakeholder groups, including First Nations peoples, alumni, and local and regional communities.
View current University Council members, including members from outside the University
The Council's commitment to local stakeholder participation in University decision-making is further supported by the University Council Stakeholder Engagement Framework, which outlines how University Council engages with stakeholders and provides a formal and institution-wide mechanism for external stakeholders to participate in university governance and decision-making. The framework explicitly states that University Council is committed to meaningful and authentic stakeholder and community engagement and recognises that Council decisions can directly and indirectly affect a wide range of stakeholders. It establishes processes through which local communities, government representatives, industry groups, First Nations communities, alumni, and other stakeholders can share their perspectives with Council to inform governance decisions. Importantly, the engagement process is conducted independently by Council to ensure stakeholder views are considered in strategic oversight and decision-making, providing a clear pathway for external voices to influence the University's direction.
Aboriginal participation
The University of Tasmania’s Strategic Plan for Aboriginal Engagement requires meaningful and effective engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in its governance processes, decision-making systems and leadership roles at all levels. To achieve this, the University ensures that opportunities are created for Indigenous participation of staff, students and community members in governance and leadership roles. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff with substantial experience at the University are recognised as holders of valuable perspectives on organisational culture and practice. Indigenous community members and their Elders are acknowledged as authorities on matters of cultural protocol.
Progress has already been achieved through the establishment of the Pro Vice Chancellor, Aboriginal Leadership as an identified executive role with membership on Academic Senate and Academic Division management. In 2025, the University also progressed major strategic initiatives that embedded Indigenous perspectives across teaching, research, governance, sustainability, and community engagement, including through the development of the Indigenous Cultural Inclusion Plan, Indigenous Research Plan, Indigenous Education Plan, and Indigenous Employment Plan.
Course Advisory Committee
The University's Course Advisory Committees provide external and internal expertise to ensure the currency and future-readiness of courses. Committees include representatives from industry, professional bodies and other stakeholder groups, including local stakeholders, who contribute insights into on curriculum development, graduate capabilities, course relevance, emerging workforce needs and community expectations.
The Course Advisory Committee Procedure establishes a structured mechanism through which external stakeholders can contribute to academic decision-making. Through regular engagement with academic leaders and course teams, these committees enable external stakeholders to influence educational offerings. This collaborative approach helps ensure that University programs reflect the needs of the communities and sectors they serve while providing stakeholders with opportunities to contribute to decisions relating to teaching and learning.
Alumni Advisory Committee
The Alumni Advisory Committee provides a mechanism through which alumni as external stakeholders contribute advice and perspectives to the University's decision-making processes for ongoing development and future direction. Committee members represent a diverse range of professional, community and regional experiences and maintain strong connections with the University and the broader Tasmanian community.
Through engagement with alumni representatives, the University obtains feedback on strategic priorities, institutional development, reputation, student outcomes, and stakeholder engagement. The committee helps ensure that the experiences and perspectives of graduates (many part of local communities) continue to inform University discussions and initiatives, strengthening connections between the University, its alumni community and the communities in which they live and work.
University principles on corruption and bribery
https://www.utas.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/1679007/Fraud-and-Corruption-Control-Plan.pdf
Academic freedom policy
Publish financial data
https://www.utas.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/1943836/2025-Annual-Report-FINAL-double-page.pdf
Working with government
Provide expert advice to government
The University of Tasmania provides expert advice to local, regional, state and national governments through a range of dedicated policy, research and advisory mechanisms. Across the University, researchers contribute evidence-based analysis, commissioned reviews, legislative submissions, policy consultations and government advisory activities that support public decision-making and policy development. This engagement spans fields including governance, education, law reform, climate and energy transition, regional development, workforce planning, health, and social policy. Through formal partnerships, policy submissions, government-commissioned research and advisory appointments, the University contributes informed and independent expertise and provides advice to address complex public policy challenges and improve outcomes for communities in Tasmania and beyond.
Tasmanian Policy Exchange
The University of Tasmania's Tasmanian Policy Exchange (TPE) provides independent, expert evidence-based policy advice to local and state government bodies across a range of strategic policy areas. TPE works directly with government partners to deliver policy analysis, commissioned research, reviews, submissions and expert advice that support informed public decision-making. The TPE’s work addresses major policy challenges facing Tasmania, including democratic governance, climate and energy transition, regional development, health and social policy, and local government reform.
During 2025, TPE continued to provide expert advice and evidence to government through a range of policy-focused outputs. These included Tasmania's Clean Fuel Future: A Submission on the Draft Future Clean Fuels Strategy, prepared in response to a Tasmanian Government consultation process, and research publications addressing regional development priorities, population change, local government funding, and community planning. TPE also continued its work on Tasmania's transition to a low-emissions economy, preparing submissions and evidence relating to renewable energy, clean fuels and climate action policy.
TPE researchers also contribute directly to government advisory and review processes. It provides research and analysis support for government-led reviews and engages policymakers through workshops, roundtables and policy forums designed to inform decision-making. TPE's leadership maintains active involvement in government advisory bodies, including the Premier's Health and Wellbeing Advisory Council, the Climate Minister's Expert Reference Group and the Marinus Link Consumer Advisory Panel. Through these formal advisory roles and policy engagement activities, the University provides expert guidance and evidence to government on issues of strategic importance to Tasmania's future.
Public Submissions Program
The University maintains a formal Public Submissions program through which it contributes expert advice to government consultations, inquiries and policy reviews at local, state and national levels. The University's public submissions portal provides transparent access to recommendations and evidence submitted in response to government requests for consultation and policy input. This approach ensures that university expertise is incorporated into public policy processes and legislative development.
During 2025, the University submitted evidence and recommendations to a range of significant government reviews and policy initiatives. These included submissions on the Tasmanian Advanced Technology Industries Strategy, the Strategic Examination of Research and Development, the ARC Review of the National Competitive Grants Program, and the Review of Tasmania's Right to Information Framework. The University also contributed to consultations examining workforce capability and productivity, including the Productivity Commission's work on building a skilled and adaptable workforce.
These formal submissions provide government agencies and policymakers with independent expert analysis informed by the University's research and operational expertise. Through this mechanism, the University directly contributes to the development of public policy, legislation and strategic planning.
Tasmania Law Reform Institute
The Tasmania Law Reform Institute (TLRI) is a long-standing partnership between the University of Tasmania, the Tasmanian Government and the Law Society of Tasmania. The Institute was established specifically to provide independent legal research, consultation and expert advice to support law reform and legislative review within Tasmania. Through this structure, University expertise is embedded directly within processes that inform government policy and legislative change.
The Institute undertakes reviews referred by government and prepares evidence-based reports and recommendations for policymakers. Current work includes a review of the Coroners Act 1995 (Tas), undertaken at the request of the Tasmanian Attorney-General. This review involves research, stakeholder consultation and analysis of legal frameworks and practices to support potential legislative reform.
In addition to specific reviews, the Institute conducts broader law reform projects and consultations relating to governance, constitutional matters and legislative effectiveness. By providing independent expert analysis and recommendations for government consideration, the TLRI represents a direct and ongoing mechanism through which the University contributes specialist knowledge to public policy and law reform.
Government-Commissioned Academic Research and Legislative Submissions
University of Tasmania researchers also provide expert advice directly to government departments and legislative processes through commissioned reports, consultation responses and submissions prepared by academic specialists. These activities demonstrate how disciplinary expertise is applied to specific public policy questions and regulatory reviews.
For example, in 2025, researchers from the Faculty of Education and the Peter Underwood Centre for Educational Attainment prepared a formal submission to the review of the Tasmanian Teachers Registration Act. The work was commissioned by Tasmania's Department of Education, Children and Young People and provided academic expertise and sector knowledge to support the review of the state's teacher registration framework.
University academics also contributed expert advice to legislative processes through submissions on proposed laws, including a 2025 submission relating to the Youth Justice Facility Development Bill. Prepared by University legal academics, the submission provided evidence and analysis relevant to government consideration of youth justice policy and legislation. Such contributions enable policymakers to draw upon independent academic expertise when assessing legislative proposals and public policy reforms.
Outreach and education for policy- and lawmakers
The University of Tasmania actively supports evidence-informed policymaking through a range of research centres and engagement initiatives that provide outreach, education, professional development, policy advice, and capacity-building opportunities for policy and lawmakers, including government agencies, elected representatives, public servants, and community leaders. Through specialist training, professional development opportunities, public forums, collaborative research partnerships and practical policy engagement, the University helps policymakers develop the knowledge and capabilities required to address complex challenges including climate change, governance, economic development, public health, social inclusion, workforce participation, and sustainable development. These activities strengthen the links between research, public policy, and practical decision-making for Tasmania and beyond.
Tasmanian Behavioural Lab (tas.be.lab)
The Tasmanian Behavioural Lab provides training, education and advisory services specifically designed to help governments, businesses, and community organisations make better decisions and design more effective policies. The Lab applies and shares expertise from behavioural economics, psychology, and cognitive science to understand how people make decisions and how policy interventions can be designed to achieve improved social outcomes.
A core element of the Lab's mission is working directly with government agencies and policymakers. The Lab supports public-sector organisations to identify behavioural drivers of complex policy problems, review evidence, co-design interventions, evaluate policy effectiveness, and analyse behavioural data. These activities build policy and lawmakers capability in evidence-based policymaking while helping public agencies develop practical solutions to challenges in areas such as health, education, workforce participation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable consumption.
The Lab also delivers behavioural science education and professional development opportunities for current and future policy professionals. Through specialist training, applied learning experiences and collaboration with government partners, participants gain practical knowledge that can be applied to policy design, service delivery and community engagement. The Lab additionally contributes to public conversations about behavioural science and public policy, helping to broaden understanding of how behavioural approaches can be used to address complex social and environmental challenges.
For example, in 2025 the Lab delivered the Nudging for Sustainability workshop, which brought together over 40 participants from community and industry. The session introduced participants to the concept of "nudging"—small, evidence-based changes to choice architecture that can lead to significant behavioural shifts with practical examples to employ in their roles in shaping policy or driving organisational change, with actionable tools to support a sustainability agenda through behavioural innovation. Policymakers, leaders, managers, and organisations can use this understanding to make better decisions or design more effective behaviour change interventions across policy, business, and community settings.
Tasmanian Policy Exchange
The Tasmanian Policy Exchange (TPE) was established to connect academic expertise with public decision-making and to support better policy outcomes for Tasmania. The Exchange works directly with government, industry and community partners to produce independent policy analysis and evidence-based recommendations on major social, economic and environmental issues.
A key aspect of the TPE's work is building policy capability among decision-makers. TPE convenes workshops, roundtables, forums and public discussions that bring together researchers and policymakers to explore solutions to complex challenges. These activities provide opportunities for knowledge exchange and upskilling while strengthening relationships between government and research communities.
The TPE's research focuses on issues highly relevant to public policy, including the transition to a zero-emissions future, sustainable community development, democratic engagement, governance, housing, regional development, employment, and wellbeing. TPE produces accessible resources and commentary on these and other topics, designed to support public understanding of policy issues.
For example, in 2025, the Tasmanian Policy Exchange launched Policy in My Backyard (PIMBY), a public policy outreach and education initiative designed to foster informed discussion on the issues shaping Tasmania's future. Across its first year, PIMBY published 17 articles covering topics including cost-of-living pressures, climate change, the energy transition, democratic governance, housing, regional development, public transport, sustainability, technology, workforce change and economic policy. Articles examined both state and national issues, including the 2025 Federal Budget, household living costs, climate and environmental initiatives, and long-term policy challenges facing Tasmania. By presenting complex policy topics in clear and accessible language, PIMBY created opportunities for policymakers, community leaders and the broader public to engage with contemporary policy issues and contribute to informed public debate.
Importantly, the TPE explicitly supports University researchers to engage with policymakers and build their own policy impact capabilities. This role extends the University's contribution to policymaking by increasing the ability of academics and public decision-makers to collaborate on evidence-led solutions.
Climate Futures Research Group
The University’s Climate Futures Research Group provides climate science expertise, climate adaptation guidance, and decision-support tools to governments, industries, and communities across Australia. Its work focuses on translating complex climate science into practical information that can support public policy, long-term planning, and climate adaptation initiatives.
A significant element of the group's contribution is climate literacy and capacity-building. Its researchers focus on making climate information accessible and actionable for policymakers and practitioners, supporting adaptation planning, resilience-building, and climate-informed governance. Current projects supported by the Tasmanian Government aim to deliver accessible climate information to government, industry and community stakeholders to strengthen climate resilience across the state.
By bridging the gap between scientific research and public decision-making, Climate Futures equips policymakers and public agencies with the knowledge, tools and evidence required to address climate change impacts and transition planning.
Participation in government research
The University of Tasmania works with government departments, public agencies and statutory authorities to address policy challenges facing Tasmania and beyond. At the forefront of this work is the Tasmanian Policy Exchange (TPE), the University's dedicated policy research and engagement initiative, which brings together researchers, policymakers, industry and community partners to explore issues shaping Tasmania's future.
Through the TPE and a range of research institutes, centres and academic disciplines, University researchers contribute to government reviews, evaluations, strategy development, consultations and policy discussions across areas including climate action, community wellbeing, health, governance and regional development. Researchers work alongside policymakers to identify emerging challenges, develop policy options, evaluate programs and strategies, and provide research-informed perspectives on complex social, economic and environmental issues.
These collaborations create opportunities for University expertise to contribute to public policy development while ensuring research remains connected to the needs of communities and decision-makers. Through long-term partnerships and project-based collaborations, the University of Tasmania supports policy conversations and initiatives that contribute to Tasmania's environmental sustainability, economic prosperity, public health and community wellbeing.
Tasmanian Policy Exchange (TPE)
The Tasmanian Policy Exchange (TPE) is the University's flagship policy research and engagement initiative. Established to strengthen the University's contribution to public policy, the TPE works directly with government, industry and community partners to produce rigorous, independent evidence and policy analysis on issues shaping Tasmania's future. The centre's operating model is explicitly focused on collaboration with government departments and agencies, making it a direct example of policy-focused research undertaken in partnership with policymakers.
TPE researchers undertake commissioned research, policy reviews, evaluations and discussion papers that inform government decision-making. The centre conducts both rapid-response policy analysis and longer-term research projects and facilitates engagement between researchers and policymakers through roundtables, workshops and public forums. This approach enables government agencies to access specialist academic expertise while ensuring research is responsive to contemporary policy challenges.
A significant example in 2025 was the publication of the Evaluation Report – It Takes a Tasmanian Village: Tasmania's Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy. This work assessed progress towards the Tasmanian Government's child and youth wellbeing objectives and provided evidence to support ongoing policy development and implementation. The project demonstrates direct engagement between university researchers and government stakeholders in evaluating public policy outcomes.
The TPE also produced Tasmania's Clean Fuel Future: A Submission on the Draft Future Clean Fuels Strategy and Tasmanian Greenhouse Gas Emissions Update: Annual Progress Report for the 2023 Reporting Year, both released in 2025. These reports and submissions informed policy discussions relating to emissions reduction, energy transition and climate policy, contributing independent evidence to government policy processes.
Through these activities, the TPE provided government departments with independent policy analysis while also creating pathways for researchers across the University to engage directly in public policy debates and policy development processes.
Tasmanian Law Reform Institute
The University’s Tasmania Law Reform Institute (TLRI) provides independent legal research and consultation to support law reform in Tasmania. Established through a partnership between the Tasmanian Government, the University of Tasmania and the Law Society of Tasmania, the Institute works on legal and policy questions referred by government, while also undertaking broader law reform projects that contribute to public discussion and legislative review.
In 2025, the Tasmanian Government referred a comprehensive review of the Coroners Act 1995 (Tas) to the TLRI. Requested by the Attorney-General, the review examines the operation of Tasmania's coronial system, including the role of coroners in death prevention, support for families, coronial procedures and potential legislative reforms. The project includes consultation with government agencies, stakeholders and the wider community, bringing together legal research and public policy considerations to inform future reform of the Act.
The Institute also undertakes research on emerging legal and policy issues affecting Tasmanian communities. In 2025, the TLRI published research examining the operation of Tasmania's Commissions of Inquiry Act 1995 and aspects of the Evidence Act 2001, exploring the legislative framework governing public inquiries and identifying areas for further consideration.
Additional 2025 projects included Safeguarding Against the Abuse of Older Tasmanians, which examined legal and policy responses to the abuse of older people and considered options to strengthen protections for vulnerable members of the community. Through projects such as these, the TLRI contributes research and analysis on legislation, regulation and governance, supporting ongoing discussions about law reform and public policy in Tasmania.
Centre for Marine Socioecology
The University’s Centre for Marine Socioecology (CMS) provides, develops and integrates multi-disciplinary research to better understand and manage Australia’s oceans to underpin the sustainable development of the marine domain for all users and build the necessary capacity to provide skills and solutions for industry, government and the community. Their ‘Coastal & Marine Governance’ research theme focuses on formal and informal arrangements (e.g., policy, regulations, economic incentives, and social and cultural norms) that mediate how humans interact with the environment and its resources, with research foci including marine law and policy.
For example, in 2025, CMS-supported research included a project that examined how countries are developing Sustainable Ocean Plans and coordinating policy across government agencies to support the long-term management of marine resources. The project explores governance structures, policy implementation and approaches to ocean planning, contributing to international discussions on sustainable ocean management. Another project focuses on science policy and decision making in the blue economy and addressing knowledge gaps.
Blue Economy CRC
University of Tasmania researchers contribute to the Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre, a collaboration involving industry, government and research partners working on the future of offshore renewable energy, sustainable seafood production and ocean governance. Through the CRC, researchers examine the policy, planning and regulatory frameworks required to support emerging marine industries while balancing environmental, economic and community priorities.
This work brings together expertise in marine science, governance, law, economics and planning, contributing to discussions on how marine resources can be managed and developed in a changing policy environment. Some recent and current examples include:
- UTAS researchers are involved in the CRC project "Marine Spatial Planning for a Blue Economy", which examines how competing uses of marine environments can be coordinated through governance and planning arrangements. The project addresses policy questions relating to offshore energy, aquaculture, ecosystem protection and ocean-use conflicts.
- The CRC project "Mapping and Analysis of Blue Economy Policy and Legislative Arrangements" analysed Australia's policy and legislative environment for blue economy industries and generated resources designed to help government, industry and researchers navigate complex marine governance arrangements. The project also resulted in a dedicated Blue Economy Policy and Legal Database.
- Various current CRC projects involving UTAS include Australian Offshore Wind Development Scenarios and research examining the preconditions for offshore wind development in Australia. These projects consider governance arrangements, regulatory settings and planning frameworks needed to support emerging offshore industries.
Neutral platform to discuss issues
The University of Tasmania actively provides a neutral and inclusive platform where diverse political, policy, industry and community stakeholders can engage in open dialogue on issues of public importance. Through initiatives such as the Island of Ideas public lecture series and the work of the Tasmanian Policy Exchange, the University convenes researchers, government representatives, industry leaders, civil society organisations, media commentators and community members to discuss contemporary social, environmental, economic and governance challenges. The University's capacity to provide a neutral platform for engagement between diverse political, community and industry stakeholders is underpinned by institutional policies that protect freedom of expression and ensure equitable access to University facilities.
University Policies
The Academic Freedom and Free Speech Policy establishes the University's commitment to protecting freedom of inquiry, research, teaching and public debate. The policy affirms the rights of staff and students to express lawful opinions, engage in intellectual discourse, challenge prevailing ideas and contribute to public debate without undue institutional or political interference. These protections help create an environment in which diverse viewpoints can be discussed respectfully and openly, supporting constructive engagement on complex social, environmental and political issues. The policy provides an important foundation for public forums, lectures, debates and stakeholder engagement activities hosted by the University. By formally embedding academic freedom and free speech within its governance framework, the University supports the provision of a safe and neutral space where individuals representing different political perspectives, sectors and interests can discuss challenges and potential solutions in an evidence-based manner.
The Facilities, Infrastructure and Asset Management Policy supports the effective management and use of University spaces and facilities for teaching, research, engagement and community activities. This policy supports the freedom of speech policy by requiring that events held at the University uphold the values of the University and be consistent with the University’s Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech Policy, do not cause unwarranted disruption or damage, or compromise safety or wellbeing.
Examples in Practice
the University of Tasmania regularly convenes public discussions on politically significant and sometimes controversial issues, providing a neutral, safe and respectful environment for evidence-based debate for different political and other stakeholders.
A key example is the University's Island of Ideas public talk series. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the series brings together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders and community voices to discuss issues affecting society, including climate change, social cohesion, democracy, economic development, public health and environmental sustainability. Events are offered both in person and online, expanding accessibility and encouraging broad community participation. Through Island of Ideas and related initiatives, the University regularly hosts events that enable discussion among people with diverse political and social perspectives.
Examples include:
- Democracy Done Differently (2024), which examined transparency, accountability and democratic participation in Tasmania. The panel included a former Tasmanian Premier, an independent economist, representatives from the community sector, media commentators and University experts. The event encouraged evidence-based discussion of democratic reform and public policy challenges.
- Global Power and Accountability: Prosecuting Putin and Netanyahu (2025), which explored international law, accountability mechanisms and the role of global institutions in responding to alleged violations of international humanitarian law. The event provided an opportunity for community members, researchers and policy stakeholders to engage with differing perspectives on complex geopolitical issues.
- Australia and the Trump Effect (2025), a public discussion examining how political developments in the United States influence Australian politics, public policy, democratic institutions and international relationships. By facilitating informed dialogue on the impacts of political leadership, populism and global political change, the University encouraged participants to critically consider a range of viewpoints and their implications for Australian society.
- Australian Resilience and Preparedness in the New World Disorder (2025), as part of the Sir James Plimsoll Lecture series. In 2025, the lecture featured Professor Rory Medcalf, one of Australia's leading strategic policy experts, who examined emerging geopolitical challenges and Australia's role in an increasingly complex Indo-Pacific region. The lecture provided a forum for discussion of international relations, security, diplomacy and public policy, enabling engagement between academics, policymakers, students and members of the wider community on issues that are central to national and global governance, and encouraging participants to consider diverse perspectives on contemporary political and strategic challenges.
- Building Social Cohesion in a Multicultural Country (2026), which brought together national and Tasmanian leaders to discuss inclusion, migration and community cohesion, addressing issues of public interest that involve a range of stakeholder perspectives.
- Critical Minerals, Critical Moment (2026), which explored Tasmania's role in the energy transition and considered the balance between economic opportunity and environmental responsibility. The discussion engaged perspectives from research, industry and policy communities.
Likewise, the University Tasmanian Policy Exchange (TPE) regularly convene roundtable discussions, workshops, and forums on democracy, political institutions and public policy. These events bring together academics, policymakers and community stakeholders to examine contemporary governance challenges and engage in a neutral and safe space to discuss differing views. They also help identify solutions to complex problems.