Student Highlights
Making an impact through postgrad studies
Driven by her passion for lifelong learning and experience in the legal industry, Belinda embarked on postgraduate study at the University of Newcastle to expand her knowledge through the Master of Environmental Law.
“I’d worked within local government for almost 25 years and during that time I held various legal and ombudsman-based roles.
“I’m keenly interested in climate change, sustainability, the environment, intergenerational equity, human displacement and cultural recognition and always wanted to do my Masters. So, when I saw the Master of Environmental Law was offered in Newcastle, it was the perfect fit for my lifestyle and passion,” said Belinda.
“Six years ago, I was able to go to Kiribati in the Pacific Islands to assist them with strategic policy work and that ignited a flame in me to focus more on globally conscious work.”
Not only has Belinda advanced her theoretical understanding of environmental law, but she’s also had the opportunity to immerse herself in practical work that makes a difference.
“I’ve recently returned from two weeks in Indonesia. We had the opportunity to do some amazing reforestation work and were also able to visit the Sidoarjo mud flow disaster area which was a very enlightening experience.
“We did some fun things too like climbing Mt Bromo – which showed us different elements of the environment. That opened my eyes to the staggering impacts an active volcano has on the environment and was pretty amazing to see,” added Belinda.
"I'm off too Brazil in February 2019 to undertake a published research project on water resourcing, having recently completed both the Environmental Law Clinic working on current cases and the
United Nations co-certified training on Sustainable Development and the 2030 Agenda.
With flexible online learning, exciting practical experiences and various program offerings, the Master of Environmental Law continues to inspire Belinda every day.
“I’m really enjoying the diversity of programs on offer. It doesn’t restrict you to focus on one particular area which I think is really important.
“Ultimately, I’d like to do something that extends the work I did in the South Pacific and become more of a global advocate either in law, sustainability or cultural protection,” concluded Belinda.
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Belinda Charlton
Belinda Charlton is a current student at the University of Newcastle studying a Master of Environmental Law.
I’m really enjoying the diversity of programs on offer. It doesn’t restrict you to focus on one particular area which I think is really important.
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.