Impact Case Studies

Southern Cross University is a vibrant regional university where research is focused on solving real‑world challenges.

From climate change and natural resource management to health, wellbeing and social impact. Our areas of strength are grounded in regional expertise, yet designed to scale, delivering impact at national and global levels.

We are committed to research excellence that is shaped through collaboration with communities, partners and stakeholders, ensuring our work is both relevant and actionable. At Southern Cross Uni, impact is not defined solely by publications, but by the tangible difference our researchers make - across systems, communities and lives.

Everyday our researchers are addressing complex challenges, translating knowledge into practice, and creating meaningful impact in the world.

Definition of Impact

Research impact is the real‑world difference made through research - extending beyond academic outputs to deliver meaningful outcomes across communities, systems and industries.

Key elements of impact

Extends beyond academia into real‑world application
May be direct or indirect
Creates measurable or observable change across areas such as health, society, environment, economy and policy

Evidence of Impact

Research impact can be demonstrated in different ways, reflecting the range of contributions research makes across society. At Southern Cross University, we consider impact across a number of areas, including:

Understanding and awareness

Improving understanding of an issue or building new knowledge beyond academic audiences

Attitudes and behaviours

Influencing how individuals, organisations or communities think, act or make decisions

Economic impact

Delivering financial benefits, cost savings or improved efficiency

Environmental impact

Enhancing the protection, sustainability or management of natural systems

Health and wellbeing

Improving health outcomes, quality of life and community wellbeing

Policy and practice

Informing or shaping policy, regulation or professional practice

Cultural and social impact

Strengthening communities, influencing cultural understanding or improving social outcomes

Capacity and capability

Building skills, knowledge, networks and preparedness for future challenges

Definitions and elements of impact

Evidence of impact

Impact case studies

Supporting Refugee Women through Education, Employment and Empowerment (3Es)

Planting food sustainability thinking and practice through STEM in the garden

Enhancing the livelihood benefits of a new village-based fishery in Samoa

Safety messages in National Parks

Participation & wellbeing at school

Increasing registrations on the Australian Organ Donation Register

Blueberries and water quality

Improving mathematics & science education

Beekeeping for sustainable livelihoods in the Indo-Pacific region

Social work research – LGBTI ageing

Conservation of rare inshore dolphins in Australia

Creating sustainable visitor experiences

Improving income of Pacific Island fishers through improved fishery processing

Stepping stones for glider populations

Improved tools for testing marine toxicity

Restoring coral reefs

Cleaning up acid sulfate soils

Support for children experiencing loss or grief

Discovery of the fragrance gene

Improving knowledge & awareness of end-of-life care

Improving staff retention in the health & welfare sector

Learning about sustainability through play