The Pacific Ocean covers a third of the earth's surface with thousands of unique islands. The diversity of island types and cultures across Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia pose distinctive challenges. Pacific communities face increasing threats to their livelihoods from climate change, natural disasters, and evolving health concerns.
The Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research (ACPIR) is committed to co-designing research projects and developing evidence-based solutions collaboratively with Pacific communities. Our research projects focus on supporting these communities to play a role in shaping a more sustainable future.
ACPIR is a multidisciplinary research centre that provides a focal point for the expertise and experience of researchers connected through their capacity to make a significant contribution to knowledge and impact in the areas of primary production, community health and the environment in the Pacific Islands region.
Research areas
Agriculture and agribusiness
Our research on subtropical and tropical agricultural and postharvest horticulture systems in the Pacific centres on developing supply chains for wider food security, poverty alleviation and sustainable livelihood development outcomes.
Aquaculture and marine sciences
The Aquaculture-based livelihoods research team combines science, economics and social science to develop industries and programs that are profitable, sustainable and culturally appropriate.
Nutrition and food systems
Food environments in the Pacific have changed dramatically in recent times. Understanding food environments and dietary behaviours in the Pacific Islands informs strategies to improve health in those communities.
Health
ACPIR is engaged in research to address prevalent health issues in the Pacific Islands. Our research spans a spectrum of health-related issues, aiming to not only understand the root causes but also to implement practical interventions that resonate with the unique needs of the Pacific.
Peoples and cultures
Understanding the unique ethnic and cultural diversity rooted in the history of the Pacific Islands is imperative in an era where globalisation is forcing ever greater cultural homogeneity.
Environmental sustainability
Sustaining the viability of island environments is about survival. The ability of Pacific Islanders to sustain livelihoods has been repeatedly challenged by extreme events and longer-term impacts of climate change.
Pasifika Association at UniSC
Home of the Pasifika Association at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Supported by the Australian Centre for Pacific Islands Research, the student group launched in 2022 to support the Pasifika students and their community at UniSC.
Research Students
ACPIR provides supervision and exciting research opportunities for postgraduate and undergraduate students, including the Summer Research Scholarship - find out more about studying with us.