Claire Hodgman

I am originally from Tasmania and completed my Bachelor of Science at the University of Otago (New Zealand) in 2024, majoring in Geography with a minor in Politics. My studies allowed me to explore both the physical science behind climate change and the broader issues of climate justice. I have since relocated to Sydney to pursue my Master’s degree.

Supervised by: Moninya Roughan, Laura Parker, Rachel Groom

Project Title: Strengthening Indigenous–Western partnerships to improve ocean warming knowledge and prediction in the face of climate change

Project Description: Indigenous perspectives and acknowledgement are underrepresented in marine science, which is unjust given that climate change is already affecting culture and livelihoods of Indigenous people globally. Respecting the sovereignty of Aboriginal and Indigenous communities who care for and manage their ocean estate requires meaningful collaborations between Traditional Custodians and marine scientists, however, too often these engagements are transactional and short-term rather than collaborative and enduring. Observations of ocean temperatures are essential baselines for identifying climate change impacts such as ocean warming and marine extremes but are sparse in remote regions of Australia. By working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Rangers and Traditional Custodians to collect local data we can strengthen ocean understanding, and improve regional ocean and climate forecasting, in remote but culturally significant regions of Sea Country. In this project we reflect on participants’ experiences of collaboration in ocean temperature monitoring. By engaging with Indigenous partners, scientists, and community members, this study seeks to identify respectful ways to include Indigenous participation in marine science and to build long-term partnerships that support collective responses to the challenges of ocean warming and climate change.