SIRP'S UP E-newsletter

People make a difference

When we focus on biophysical issues in NRM such as declining water quality and increasing salinity. it is important to remind ourselves that people make a difference. Investing in understanding, supporting and informing the people and communities who will address these biophysical problems is vital. 

Through its diverse research program, the Social and Institutional Research Program puts people and communities first.

Market based instruments

Market based instruments (MBI) are already being used by some regional NRM groups and government agencies to meet regional planning targets. A new fact sheet summarises the six MBI projects funded through SIRP.

Market based instruments»

Ecotrust in the Kimberley

A cultural and conservation economy supports long-term, sustainable solutions for maintaining country and culture in Indigenous communities. Research examining the suitability of a cultural and conservation economy model may now be trialed in the Kimberley region. This work will be based on the Canadian Ecotrust approach for sustainable development in rural and remote Indigenous communities.   

Ecotrust in the Kimberley»

Change and Continuity in Peri-Urban Australia

The peri-urban areas within 150 kms of Australian cities are undergoing rapid change and fragmentation. These areas are under pressure from further urban expansion, yet produce over one quarter of the value of our agricultural production and are important sources of environmental, natural and human resources.  A new summary report on these issues is now available, studying peri-urban land around Melbourne and Brisbane.   

Change and Continuity in Peri-Urban Australia»

Valuing Social & Institutional Research

SIRP is currently implementing its 2005-2010 R&D Plan.  A recent review involving surveys with stakeholders, and covering 21 projects, found that SIRP is making significant and strategic contributions to Australia’s NRM institutions, their policies, programs and partners.  The review highlights the importance of investing in understanding and supporting people and institutions working in NRM.

Valuing Social & Institutional Research»

Caring for our Country and SIRP future priorities

Caring for our Country, the Australian Government's new natural resource management initiative, outlines the Government's priorities for NRM in Australia. SIRPs future priorities align closely with this new approach.  

Caring for our Country and SIRP future priorities»

Welcome to New SIRP Program Management Committee (PMC) Members

The Land & Water Australia Board met in Canberra in September and appointed two new Directors Rowan Foley and David Eyre as members of the SIRP PMC.    

Welcome to New SIRP Program Management Committee (PMC) Members»

The Social and Institutional Research Program (SIRP)

Land & Water Australia aims to improve the management of Australia’s land and water resources. Between 2005 and 2010, together with partners from research, government and NRM sectors, SIRP will invest over $8 Million in research to address priority NRM social science issues.

Check out sirp.gov.au for more information.