Research in the news

How do climate change disasters shape the mental health of those affected? Dr Timothy Heffernan from the School of Built Environment explains how the enduring trauma of such events can severely impair "people's ability to adjust back to a normal life," further amplified by delayed access to government crisis response and support services. 

Dr Chris Martin from the City Futures Research Centre unpacks the complex dynamic between interest rates and rent prices, noting it can be difficult to track. He considers both the short and long-term impacts, suggesting that interest rate cuts might increase the supply of rental housing and lead to a temporary pause in rent price growth.

Amid the national housing crisis, a new report has found that productivity in housing construction has been stagnating for 30 years. Professor Philip Thalis from the School of Built Environment notes that low approvals are not the only measure for consideration, pointing out "there's an even more acute shortfall after that in terms of completions."

Dr Chris Martin from the City Futures Research Centre discusses new privacy laws set to roll out in 2025 across various states and territories, aimed at better protecting renters against discrimination. He explains that until recently, "the amount of information required by landlords has been unregulated."

Amid rising global temperatures, Associate Professor Lan Ding from the School of Built Environment shares how the Heat Vulnerability Index can identify factors contributing to extreme heat events throughout a metropolitan area and support future decision-making in local urban policies. [Timestamp 0:21:27]

Associate Professor Jane Mills from the School of Arts & Media discusses the return of the international documentary film festival, Antenna. She explains how this year's selection celebrates "the right diversity" and showcases "documentaries that challenge conventional views of what documentaries can be." [Timestamp 1:19:20]

As the federal election approaches, Scientia Associate Professor Sukhmani Khorana from the School of the Arts and Media discusses her research into misinformation campaigns targeting migrant communities. She emphasises the need for politicians and their advisers "to be more mindful of how migration and migrants are changing."

A new study scoring Sydney suburbs using an Environmental Health Quality Index has highlighted the socio-economic disparities between communities. Commenting on these findings, Professor Susan Thompson from the City Futures Research Centre explains, “it can determine the environment you can afford to live in.”

Professor Philip Oldfield from the School of Built Environment weighs in on the NSW Planning Minister’s remarks on the need for more residential development in the CBD. He acknowledges the benefits and challenges of this proposal, pointing out that as a centre of commerce and business, “it’s going to be really challenging to get that mix right.” 

Have we become over-reliant on smartwatch devices to track our health? Professor Deborah Lupton from the Centre for Social Research in Health and the Social Policy Research Centre explains that they can be a useful tool when users "don't just trust the data" but equally "rely on their own embodied knowledge about their bodies." [Timestamp 8:23]

Dr Naama Carlin from the School of Social Sciences weighs in on the latest surge of antisemitic vandalism across Sydney. She explains that while "these attacks are abhorrent and frightening," they also represent an opportunity for unity, inviting us to "think about how we address racial violence and prejudice collectively."

Associate Professor Pan Wang from the School of Humanities & Languages discusses the significance of the Chinese Lunar New Year. She explains how the customary traditions and activities, from lion dancing to lighting fireworks, reflects "positive symbolism" and showcases "national and cultural identity." [Timestamp 1:46:38] 

How can teachers better support gifted children who are underachieving? Professional Doctorate Candidate Jacqueline Hardman from the School of Education shares insights from her short course as part of the GERRIC program, emphasising the importance of talent development “especially in the areas of strength and interest.” [Timestamp 1:01:15]

Amid the growing demand for better high-density housing options for Australian families, Professor Phil Oldfield from the School of Built Environment shares his insights on a newly developed four-bedroom unit. He highlights the advantages of its dual-aspect layout, which allows for "cross-ventilation on warmer days."

Professor Felicity Fenner from the School of Art & Design discusses the state government's significant investment in commissioning public artworks for the new Sydney Metro. She explains how this initiative has "catapulted Sydney into the arena of proper grown-up cities" and "further elevates our status" globally.