 Enhancing research, education and training in the sustainable development and management of resources.Victoria University (UV) recognises the importance of sustainable development and innovation and the need to protect both the local and global environment. The University is committed to using its position as a leading educational institution to improve environmental knowledge, practices and policies, to the development of technologies to support improved environmental outcomes and to support the viability of local industries. In 2006, the Institute for Sustainability and Innovation (ISI) received VU’s Priority Research and Innovation Project (PRIP) funding of $3.6 million over 5 years to support the development of water related research. This initiative remained a high priority throughout 2007, as the Werribee Centre for Sustainable Water Use (Werribee Centre) was formed. The ISI grew its external water related research income from $200,000 in 2006 to over $1,000,000 in 2007. Several high level externally funded research projects are clearly benefiting Victoria University, relevant industry and government partners and community organisations. The ISI has taken strategic measures to enhance its capacity (especially through infrastructure and senior staff) to contend for large grants and to further the research agenda. The ISI’s core activities are in the area of research (both water and non-water), and education and training.
Water Research: Water is a major focus for Victoria University at both the research and education levels, and the ISI has established capability in key water research areas, especially water treatment, water resource management, social and behavioural aspects of water use and wetland health. Non Water Research: The ISI also has research programs in the alternative energy, sustainable buildings and food sectors. Education and Training: The ISI has planned a wide range of educational and training activities. Some examples are:
The dual sector nature of Victoria University, having both Higher Education and TAFE, enables the ISI to undertake broad skill based programs to support change in these industries.
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