The future of impact
The 'Future of Impact' symposium was held on 15 November, 2023.
Graphic recorder Zahra Zainal attended to visually capture the panel discussions throughout the day, download here. Audio recordings are also available below.
The importance of impact
Whether it’s finding new ways to solve problems, advancing technology or helping communities, the conscious pursuit of impactful research is essential to ensure research findings and outputs ultimately create meaningful and positive changes within society.
Designed for the local research community – including academics and professional research staff – the symposium will delve into a range of important topics pertinent to the evolution of research impact within Australia.
Panel Sessions
1. The impact agenda, an international perspective - national policy settings in Australia and elsewhere
Host: Professor Mark Hargreaves
Panel: Professor Anne Kelso, Professor Susan Dodds, Dr David Phipps
Listen to the session here
2. Building and sustaining a culture of research impact
Host: Dr David Phipps
Panel: Dr Wade Kelly, Professor Jo Barraket, Ken Knight
Listen to the session here
3. Capturing the evidence of engagement and impact: threat or opportunity
Host: Jim Lewis
Panel: Professor Abigail Payne, Professor Richard Vella, Michelle Duryea
Listen to the session here
4. Beyond the narrative. Impact as not just ‘icing on the cake’
Host: Dr Wade Kelly
Panel: Professor Lisa Grocott, Professor Aaron Corn, Keira Lowther
Listen to the session here
5. The future of research impact in Australia (and beyond)
Host: Professor Jenny Lewis
Panel: Professor Lisa Given, Dr Kate Williams, Andrew Wear
Listen to the session here
Symposium panelists
Making an impact
Research leads to real benefits for the economy, the environment and animal and human health – helping to address humanity’s biggest challenges. Read more about the impact arising from research by the University of Melbourne and its collaborators
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Improving the eyecare experience for people living with dementia
Researchers have developed resources for clinicians and patients to support people living with dementia to see as well as possible for as long as possible
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Reducing energy use with phase-change nano-particles
New inks made of phase-change nano-particles that enable reduction of energy consumption have been developed, with various applications including in cooling and heating.
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Video calling tool ‘Dossy’ builds connections for older people
An innovative digital tool called Dossy is set to help connect isolated older people with their family and friends, thanks to a university-industry collaboration.
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Supporting the successful eradication of foxes on Phillip Island
Modelling from the University of Melbourne helped Phillip Island Nature Parks decide how and when to scale back its fox eradication activities.
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What 20 years of data tell us about Australia
The annual HILDA Survey helps improve life in Australia by informing government policy in areas including health, employment and social services.
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Tools to improve learning for students with additional needs or disabilities
The SWANs assessment and teaching tools are improving education for children and young people with disabilities or additional learning needs.
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Assessing the environmental impact of construction projects
Online databases Rephrame and EPiC enable industry stakeholders to make better-informed decisions about building materials
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Reducing restrictive practices for people with complex disabilities
Evidence-based education programs are restoring human rights for people with complex disabilities
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Transforming music education using online delivery
A new framework is giving music teachers the tools and strategies needed to enhance student outcomes by harnessing technology
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Fighting domestic abuse through legislative and judicial reform
Research to improve the legal system’s response to family violence has prompted a change in legislation across Australia
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Reducing pain caused by knee osteoarthritis through diet and exercise
Researchers have developed a diet and exercise intervention for those living with knee osteoarthritis that is helping to reduce healthcare costs
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