Capabilities

The Rural Innovation Research Group (RIRG) offers unique capabilities in engaged social science research; co-innovation as a response to social, economic and environmental issues; and advice for new policies and capacity building programs.

Our capability in engaged social science research focuses on the people and practices involved in implementing change. Our research capability is deployed across four domains of innovation and change:

1. Transitions in farming systems and rural communities
2. Agricultural extension and change management
3. Natural resource management (NRM)
4. Knowledge and innovation systems
5. Work and change in agri-food
6. Indigenous land and sea management

Our engaged research approach helps us target and tailor the research to the goals of our stakeholders. We co-develop research agendas, translate research outputs into implementable actions and foster joint learning and capacity building.

In our research practice, we design, coordinate and deliver participatory events that build innovation capacity. We continually build and maintain networks for innovation in Australia and internationally. We have collaborated with communities, agricultural industries, governments, and philanthropic foundations to progress the thinking and collective action required to drive social transitions and agricultural transformation.

We also prepare Australia’s future change leaders through our research and education programs.