Research Impact - Southern Cross University

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Southern Cross University researchers are tackling global challenges in climate, health and food security, through work grounded in the regions we serve and delivered in partnership.

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Professor Judith Mair

Helping cities plan mega-event legacies that last

Major and mega-events promise lasting legacy, from tourism and jobs to community pride and healthier, more connected communities. But those benefits do not happen automatically. For host cities, the challenge is understanding who benefits, who may be disrupted, and what remains once the crowds, teams and cameras leave.

Professor Judith Mair researches major and mega-events, sport tourism, sustainability and legacy at The Hotel School Australia, Southern Cross University. Her work examines case studies of Olympic Games, Paralympic Games and other mega-events to understand what makes a successful legacy, what gets in the way, and how host destinations can plan for outcomes that last.

Her research looks beyond visitor numbers and short-term economic impact to explore social and socioeconomic impacts, including jobs, volunteering, education, skills, community pride, belonging and the way people feel about the place they live.

Professor Mair’s research helps destinations, event organisers and policymakers think more clearly about how major events can create long-term value for local communities. Her work highlights the importance of planning for legacy from the outset, involving local people and businesses, creating skills and volunteering pathways, and measuring success beyond attendance, broadcast reach and visitor spend.

As Australia looks towards Brisbane 2032, Professor Mair’s research asks a question that matters well beyond the stadium: what do we want major events to change for local people, and how do we make sure those benefits last?

A successful event is not only one that fills seats or attracts visitors. It is one that strengthens communities, supports local economies and leaves people with benefits they can still see and feel years later.

More research in action

Associate Professor Daniel Harrison

The race to protect coral reefs is reaching the sky. Research is exploring whether cloud brightening could help cool the waters surrounding vulnerable reef systems.

Dr Luke Jeffrey

What if trees are doing more for the climate than we thought? Research has uncovered trillions of microbes living in tree bark that actively remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.

Professor Georgina Dimopoulos

Family court decisions can shape childhoods long after proceedings end. Research is helping better recognise children’s voices, experiences and safety during family separation.

Dr Dylan Poulus

Gaming is no longer just a hobby – for millions, it’s community, competition and identity. Research is helping define what healthy participation in esports and online gaming really looks like.

Associate Professor Janet Schloss

Recovery doesn’t always end when treatment does or natural disaster clean-up begins. Research is exploring new ways to support people’s long-term recovery through their cancer journey or climate-related trauma with evidence-informed care.

Professor Tobias Kretzschmar

The future of food won’t just depend on what we grow, but how we grow it. Research into climate-smart crops is exploring ways to grow staple foods with less water and lower emissions.