Three architecture students have been awarded an Alastair Swayn Masters Research Grant for projects that address key planning challenges in the Territory.
Alastair Swayn was the first ACT Government Architect, and the grants honour his lasting contribution to the planning and design of our city.
Minister for Planning and Sustainable Development Chris Steel said the research grants support students completing a Master of Architecture at the University of Canberra to undertake applied research through a long-standing partnership between the Alastair Swayn Foundation, the University of Canberra and the ACT Government.
"The ACT Government continues to support the Alastair Swayn Masters Research Grants program as they provide talented, emerging architects with a valuable opportunity to engage with the work of the ACT Government Architect," Minister Steel said.
"Each year through this program, students gain first-hand insight into government priorities in planning, design and the built environment while also delivering research that informs how we plan for a more inclusive, sustainable and liveable Canberra."
Chief Executive Officer of the Alastair Swayn Foundation Erin Hinton said the grants reflect the strength of collaboration between government, academia and the philanthropic sector.
"The Alastair Swayn Masters Research Grants represent active collaboration between the University of Canberra, the ACT Government and the Alastair Swayn Foundation - producing valid and valued work at the nexus of research, policy and practice," Ms Hinton said.
"The Alastair Swayn Foundation is exceptionally proud to support the initiative, and cannot wait to see what this year's recipients will contribute."
This year's grants have been awarded to Mr Jonathan Vernon, Ms Elyse Austin and Mr Ciaran French, whose research projects address key challenges facing Canberra's housing stock and public realm.
The successful research projects to be undertaken by the students are:
- Mr Jonathan Vernon – 'Has the salt dissolved?' examines whether Canberra's social housing is genuinely integrated into surrounding suburbs or remains architecturally and socially segregated.
- Ms Elyse Austin – '(Un)Moulding the Future' investigates practical, cost‑effective ways to retrofit older Canberra homes to reduce condensation and mould and improve occupant health.
- Mr Ciaran French – 'Illuminated Architecture' explores how creative lighting installations can activate underused public spaces in Civic and create a safer, more vibrant night‑time city.
"These research projects align closely with the ACT Government's focus on high-quality housing, social and affordable housing options and people-centred public spaces.
"I congratulate the three recipients and look forward to seeing how their research contributes to future planning, housing and design outcomes for Canberra," said Minister Steel.
To learn more about the successful projects, visit the ACT Government Architect webpage.
