UNSW has launched a new research institute focused on cities and urban growth to work with councils, the Greater Cities Commission, the NSW government and Transport for NSW.

The globally orientated, future-focused Cities Institute will design and test solutions to urban challenges around transport, energy systems, sustainability and accessibility.

Dean of UNSW Arts, Design and Architecture Claire Annesley says the institute aims to future-proof cities, drawing on disciplines including climate science, the built environment, engineering, health, design, economics, social sciences and justice.

Affordable housing, active cities and urban governance will be among the top priorities, she says.

The Cities Institute will curate multidisciplinary research projects and foster partnerships with government and the private sector.

“Our approach is to lead and accelerate positive change by building cross-disciplinary teams together with government, industry and communities, working together to develop innovative solutions to the problems facing our cities and our planet,” Professor Annesle said in a statement.

“This means getting climate change experts to work with population health, housing and transport experts to design and deliver a more resilient urban future.”

‘Global powerhouse’

Launching the institute on August 18, Cities minister Rob Stokes said it aimed to be come a “global powerhouse for urban research in a time of change”.

The institute will be based in Parramatta, where it aims to leverage the NSW government’s six cities strategy as a living lab.

It will also train the next generation of ‘global city shapers’, says UNSW Vice chancellor and president Professor Attila Brungs.

The UNSW Cities Institute will provide access to a suite of education products targeting local and international city leaders including a Master of Cities, Graduate Certificates, Diplomas and micro-credentialled short courses, including Digital Twins and Managing Urban Heat.