We investigate the people side of our oceans.
Led by Associate Professor Emily Ogier, our Human Dimensions Program leads research in marine social sciences, economics and political studies, as well as interdisciplinary socio-ecology.
We work with other IMAS and UTAS programs and centres, such as the Centre for Marine Socioecology and the Tasmanian Behaviour Lab, in shared research – to join the dots and provide insights into human dimensions across a range of fisheries and aquaculture projects and challenges. Our research provides evidence about change and scientific advice to inform decision making.
We work in partnership with community, industry and government to achieve change. Our research supports the Sustainable Marine Research Collaboration Agreement goal of sustainability of Tasmania’s marine resources, by understanding the ways people, markets and institutions interact with marine resources and marine ecosystems.
We work closely with Tasmania’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors, management agencies and communities for positive outcomes in sustainability, health and prosperity.
- What social and economic benefits stem from and for fisheries and aquaculture, and how is this changing across time?
- How can ocean users, sectors and communities respond to changing conditions and build resilience?
- What options exist to sustainably manage use and benefits flowing from our oceans? What impacts will they have on sustainability and community returns?
- What values do ocean users, sectors and communities hold and how can these insights be harnessed to plan for change?
- What are effective ways to increase knowledge exchange and ocean literacy?
We work to partner in science and in allied research with Indigenous communities and researchers, both in Lutruwita/Tasmania and around the world.
We have a broad focus, from the Great Southern Reef and the Southern Ocean to global community responses to ocean governance challenges, blue economy opportunities, and climate-driven change.
Our projects, publications and partnerships
- IMAS Fisheries & Aquaculture Reports & Resources – scroll down to Social and Economic Assessments
- Sea Change Australia
- Great Southern Reef Foundation – Research Partnership
- Fisheries Research and Development Corporation Human Dimensions Research Coordination Program, hosted by IMAS.