Western Sydney University's Urban Transformations Research Centre (UTRC), launched today, is set to lead urban transformations research, and support the rapid and sustainable growth of western Sydney.
The impact driven Centre will focus on guiding communities and infrastructure into sustainable, equitable and resilient futures. With a focus on co-designed research that engages industry, government, and the communities it serves, it is well placed to address the complex challenges posed by the contemporary urban environment.
Co-Director of the Centre, Professor Nicky Morrison, said: "The Urban Transformations Research Centre addresses one of the greatest challenges facing humankind: providing people centred, inclusive, healthy, prosperous, and resilient communities while living with a changing climate. "
"The Urban Transformations initiative will be positioned as an intermediary with industry and society to create a strong culture of action-oriented research and contribute at scale to growth in Western Sydney," said Professor Morrison.
Western Sydney University's Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Enterprise and International, Professor Deborah Sweeney said, "complex change can only occur through a transdisciplinary, systemic approach to designing and delivering the future needs of western Sydney and beyond – this is exactly what the Centre is set to do."
"The launch of this Centre also reiterates Western Sydney University's commitment to sustainability, equity and connectedness, its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and calls from industry and society for action towards Net Zero and a Circular Economy."
The Centre will have three research and innovation programs at the outset: systems innovation and demonstration; people centred sustainable precinct design; and resilient construction and infrastructure.
Co-Director of the Centre, Professor Greg Morrison, said, "the Centre will be positioned with an industry and society ecosystem to create a strong culture of action-oriented research. Tackling complex urban challenges requires the involvement, commitment, and co-ordination of multiple organisations, stakeholders and end-users working together in collaborative, innovative ways. It requires challenging conventional thinking and ways of working.
"We are also mobilising established partnerships across Australia and the globe, drawing on world-class researchers and working on innovative and transferable solutions to create long-lasting, sustainable communities and resilient urban economies," said Professor Morrison.
The Urban Transformations Research Centre is affiliated with Western Sydney University's Institute for Culture and Society, and the Schools of Engineering, Design and Built Environment and the Social Sciences and will be harnessing research capabilities across the university.
