Societal Wellbeing

Thriving communities require not only quality ‘ingredients’, but effective ways of mixing them. Freedoms must be balanced with restraint. Form with function. Productivity with contentment. We enhance the recipe daily.

Led by our Professions and Arts faculties, we address multidisciplinary problems in numerous areas critical to advancing quality of life: water, health, security, social innovation, economic development and more. Our research outcomes influence policy and planning. And we constantly explore how we can apply this influence to make life better for all—at home, interstate and abroad.

Impact stories

Unpacking sugar’s effects on kids’ brains

Sugar has long been blamed for hyperactivity in children, but research from the University of Adelaide reveals that its effects on the young brain are far more complex and long-lasting.

Cashless society: the true cost of pain-free payments

A new study from University of Adelaide researchers has revealed that while cashless payments are convenient, they come at a price.

Digital age: screen time’s effect on language learning in children

Research at the University of Adelaide highlights how screen time can interfere with—and possibly aid—children’s early development.

Speed-reducing innovations drive safety on regional roads

University of Adelaide’s Centre for Automotive Safety Research (CASR) is developing technology to reduce crashes at regional intersections and––in the words of CASR researcher Chris Stokes––“save lives.”

Jailing is Failing: Rehabilitation in the Australian Prison System

The women entering Australia’s prison system are invariably accompanied by significant histories of trauma and abuse. Some have had children forcibly removed, and many women are experiencing levels of self-harm and suicidal ideation that would be completely unacceptable if identified in the outside world.

Research unpacking student scholarships for work experience

Financial support for students undertaking work integrated learning is essential for improving the accessibility of internships and work placements. Research from the University of Adelaide Law School has identified key gaps in these programs and generated recommendations for maximising their accessibility.

As the Aussie home ownership dream fades, it’s time to lift our game for renters

The number of people renting in Australia is growing at twice the rate of home ownership, and a new dataset generated by University of Adelaide researchers will help inform future policy that supports renters and guides infrastructure spending.

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