Impact and engagement

Dr Joe Fontaine in the field with students.

Turning research into real-world impact

Our researchers don't just stop at knowledge creation. We work with partners from business, government, academia and community to turn our cutting-edge research into practical solutions, with impact spanning the globe. Our research application ranges from developing new products, services and processes to improving quality and efficiency, and promoting social and economic development.

Regional engagement

Alongside our global reach, research at Murdoch University strives to be relevant to all Western Australians, particularly those living in regional areas. Our research institutes have been designed to engage strongly with our regions, as it is in these areas, outside the Perth metropolitan area, where our research can have the strongest impact, improving on-ground management, policy and health outcomes.

We partner with government and local organisations to translate our research into actionable outcomes, including the Peel Harvey Catchment Council, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, and the PEEL Development Commission. Our own research initiatives also focus on these areas, such as the Aquatic Megafauna Research Unit and the Ngangk Yira Institute for Change.

Defence research

Murdoch University undertakes a wide range of defence related research that involves close collaboration with communities, industries and government. As a member of the Defence Industry Security Program and the Team WA group of universities that coordinate on defence research activities, we welcome new partners in this area.

Learn more about defence research

Impact case studies

Here are some examples of practical research undertaken by Murdoch's expert researchers.

A locally employed surveyor surveying an open-pit copper mine in Zambia.

Improving mine closure planning

Mine closure planning can turn an environmental and social liability into new opportunities for local communities.

australian bush

Dealing with dieback

Dieback disease is one of the biggest threats facing our native bush. Tools developed to contain and control it in Western Australia are now being used to combat it worldwide.

A surveyor in a reflective vest surveying water at a dam.

Ecosensitive wastewater treatment

Wastewater treatment is about more than removing the solids. Removing soluble nutrients is increasingly important, especially when the treated wastewater is returned to sensitive ecosystems.