Centre for Integrated Resilience: Coastal, Water and Climate Resilience
We seek to unify and amplify the University’s strengths in earth and environmental science, coastal and marine science, engineering, and social science. We tackle big challenges like climate change, water security, coastal risks, and the health of ecosystems.
We share a strong commitment to helping communities and natural systems cope with climate risks and human impacts. Our team includes researchers, students, and partners who create useful knowledge, practical tools, and real solutions. These solutions cover coastal areas, water systems, and regions most affected by climate change
Our vision is to lead research that combines different fields and helps communities and ecosystems stay strong. We want them to thrive despite climate change, water shortages, and coastal hazards - both locally, and across the Pacific.
Our Purpose
- Advance scientific understanding of coastal and water systems under a changing climate.
- Innovate new tools and strategies to support adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable development.
- Translate research into evidence-based policies and place-based solutions.
- Build collaborative partnerships with governments, industries, First Nations communities, and regional stakeholders.
- Train and mentor future leaders in water, coastal, and climate resilience.
Our People
We bring together more than 30 researchers from across the University's campuses.
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Research
Our Research allow members to work across disciplines, enabling comprehensive responses to challenges such as sea-level rise, heatwaves, water scarcity, ecosystem decline, and disaster risk.
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Impact and Engagement
Our research delivers:
- Coastal adaptation strategies, including blue carbon ecosystems and living shorelines
- Environmental monitoring of coastal ecosystems delivering data for science-based management
- Long-term climate reconstructions to inform future water and climate hazard scenarios
- Practical tools for managing extreme events like floods, droughts, and heatwaves
- Data-driven support for agricultural resilience and sustainable land use
- Community-led planning, engagement, and education programs across Australia and the Pacific.
Through collaborative research, education, and outreach, we're committed to supporting more resilient futures for both people and the environment.
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.