Social Change
Social change research makes sense of human progress, from the local scale to the global, enabling governments, businesses and communities to respond in ways that benefit and strengthen society.
Our research focuses on four key areas: health and social policy and practice; mobility, migration and security; digital transformations; and, work.
In the social sciences and humanities, impact is best understood as influencing a set of connections that we need to design into research and collaborations from the beginning, by listening to and working with collaborators outside universities.
While, for example, working on the beginnings of the Digital Asia Hub, a Hong Kong-based think tank incubated at Harvard University, we have seen how impact can be built into an international research network from the beginning, by involving a diverse group of academic, civil society, and private sector partners.
Julian Thomas, Director, RMIT Social Change ECP
We will work with our research partners to improve public policy and social outcomes and to inform public understanding of social change.
Along with harnessing existing research networks and projects to respond to COVID-19, RMIT’s Enabling Capability Platforms (ECPs) launched five cross-platform initiatives in June 2020 to address various key areas for post COVID-19 recovery.
The Enabling Capability Platforms initiated Concept Papers aimed at supporting the development of ideas for major interdisciplinary projects to address significant challenges requiring a truly interdisciplinary team to make substantial progress.
Dr Serene Ho’s Concept Paper titled ‘Thinking About Treaty Spatially’ is now available to view. The paper explores spatial implications of treaty for land and geospatial professionals for building a shared future.
How can we understand and help shape possible futures for health and social support? This includes exploring:
What are the economic, cultural and social implications of increasing global mobility and our changing experiences of place and displacement? This includes understanding:
What are the social, economic and cultural consequences of automation and digital transformations in industry, government and everyday life? This includes asking how to:
What are the consequences of the changing nature and political economy of work, income and employment in Australia and at the global level?
How can we improve working lives and wellbeing by opening up access to decent work opportunities?
Contact Social Change:
Distinguished Professor Julian Thomas
+61 3 9925 3992
Contact Research Capability at RMIT
If you're not sure how you can best work with us, our team can explain what's possible and put you in touch with the right person.
Acknowledgement of country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business. - Artwork created by Louisa Bloomer
