My research explores the intersection of climate change communication, sustainability, stakeholder engagement, and research impact. I am particularly interested in how communication influences public understanding, trust, and engagement with complex environmental challenges, and how evidence can be translated into meaningful action.
My work spans climate change communication, youth engagement, children’s geographies, sustainability, and research impact, using both qualitative and mixed methods approaches.
Doctoral Thesis
Discussing a Man-Made Problem: The Role of Gender in Effective Climate Change Communication
This doctoral research investigated how communicator characteristics, audience perceptions, and communication strategies influence the effectiveness of climate change communication. Drawing on interviews with leading climate communicators across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, together with survey data from young people aged 16 to 25, the research found that while gender influences communication in nuanced ways, audience trust, relationships, and message design play a much greater role in shaping engagement.
Journal Articles
Speaking of Climate Change: Reframing Effective Communication for Greater Impact
This study examined the experiences of leading climate change communicators across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand to identify practical strategies for improving climate communication. The research proposes a four-pillar framework centred on local relevance, audience segmentation, storytelling, and actionable messaging to support more effective public engagement.
Youth Voices on Climate: Linking Engagement and Actions Across Physical and Virtual Spaces
This research explores how young Australians and New Zealanders access climate information, whom they trust, and the factors influencing their engagement with climate action. It highlights the importance of trusted communication, hope, education, and youth participation in building long-term climate resilience.
Book Chapter
Climate Change Challenges in Australian Classrooms
This chapter examines how climate change is affecting Australian communities and explores the experiences of young Australians navigating increasing environmental uncertainty. It considers the role of education, climate literacy, and youth voices in supporting future generations.
Research in Progress
Hope in the Climate Crisis: A Systematic Review of Hopeful Climate Messaging and Pro-environmental Engagement
A systematic review examining the evidence surrounding hopeful climate communication and its influence on pro-environmental engagement and behavioural change.
- PROSPERO registered protocol
- Manuscript currently under review
Research Profiles
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6358-1565