The University of Newcastle, Australia

The University of Newcastle is part of a consortium of universities, led by Griffith University in Queensland, selected by the Australian Government to host the $50 million National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility.

Announced today by Malcolm Turnbull, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, the Centre has been established to undertake adaptation research into the impact of climate change.

University of Newcastle project leader, Professor Garry Willgoose, said as the third largest partner in the consortium Newcastle was a key player offering a strong track record in research into the impact of climate change, and into management strategies.

"The University of Newcastle is well known for its research into sustainable water use through our Centre for Climate Impact Management, and for research into the impact of climate change on mental health through the Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health.

"Our involvement in the new centre will provide the University the opportunity to work with some of the leading climate change researchers in Australia - both building and sharing our expertise."

In addition to Griffith University and the University of Newcastle, the consortium comprises the Queensland Government (through its Queensland Climate Change Centre of Excellence and Department of Emergency Services), Macquarie University, Murdoch University, Queensland University of Technology, University of Southern Queensland, James Cook University and the University of the Sunshine Coast.

Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Barney Glover, said the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility would operate across Queensland, NSW and Western Australia offering for the first time a national picture of the impact of climate change and strategies to minimise the impact.

"This facility is the first of its type in Australia. The impact of climate change is far reaching and the affect is complex and varied. From the physical impact to the emotional - this Centre will offer vital data for government, industry and the community on how we should manage the impacts of climate change."

For interviews with Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Barney Glover, please contact Kate Robinson.