Established in 2003 as a strategic research and community engagement initiative of Griffith University, we are now the largest dedicated urban research grouping in Australia.
The strategic foci of the URP are research and advocacy in an urban and regional context. We seek to improve understanding of, and develop innovative responses to Australia's urban challenges and opportunities by conducting and disseminating research, advocating new policy directions, and by providing training assistance. Our research produces new knowledge for policy, regulatory and community frameworks that seek to manage change and engender sustainable urban development.
In our research we are confronted by two fundamental questions:
What is the nature of Australian urbanisation in its contemporary and historical context?
How can research inform - that is, strengthen and improve - policy and regulatory frameworks that seek to manage change, and to engender sustainable urban development?
The URP is actively engaged in the wider research community of Griffith University and beyond, forming a network of research expertise that spans social, human and physical sciences.
Nathan seminars will be held in N55_1.12 from 12.30pm to 1.30pm
Gold Coast seminars will be held in G31_3.17 from 11am to 12 noon
Wednesday 30 May 2012 - Dr Terry Li presents Exploring Retail Travel in Beijing (Nathan)
News
URP Newsletter
Read it now >>>From the URP Gold Coast
Read more >>>The Conversation
The Conversation describes itself as 'an independent source of information, analysis and commentary from the university and research sector'.
Associate Professor Jago Dodson of the URP contributes to the conversation on the ecological impacts of high density residential development. ... read more>>>
Dr Wendy Steele of the URP recently contributed her thoughts on the increasing consolidation of Australian urban development into 'complex mega-metropolitan regions. ... read more>>>
URP research ranked 'above world standard'
The Urban Research Program is very pleased that the Federal Government's Excellence in Research Australia assessment produced a ranking of 4 for Griffith University in the research field coded 1205 (urban and regional planning). The ERA rank scale is bounded by 1 and 5; 5 being the highest level. Level 4designates 'performance above world standard'. FOR 1205 includes the majority of URP research activity. Level 4 was the highest rank awarded in this field of research.URP Director Jago Dodson said: "This outcome is a clear testament to the dedicated research effort of all urban and regional planning scholars at Griffith University. Their work has been recognised as deserving high esteem."