Launched in 2022, our team creates knowledge for a better world through an innovative model of world-class research that prioritises community as the driver for all we do.
We are physically based in Springfield, Queensland, where we genuinely and comprehensively connect with community to collaborate on projects, for the benefit of all.
Our work in Springfield uses the concept of a Living Lab. Living Labs take a geographical scope to examine new solutions, with multidisciplinary teams and diverse partners, in order to advance the biggest priorities facing modern society. Springfield is this living lab and is rapidly being recognised as an exemplar city for health, wellbeing, education, energy transition and more. As a city, it’s an agile place where its future is shaped by its people, and open to influence. Here, our researchers genuinely engage with people and places, to build capacity and have impact.
Springfield is recognised as nationally significant because of its track record in setting new standards for city living and community building. This means that what is learned and created in Springfield is shared for the benefit of other cities and regions in Australia, and beyond. Specifically, what is created and tested in Springfield can then be shared and adapted for use in other locations.
By working with the Springfield community, we show the benefits of listening and acting on the priorities of community members and ensure they reap the rewards of modern-day research. Our work is transformative and has the capacity to shape the way that universities and communities can work together, akin to a “Communiversity”.
The team at The Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing in Springfield were recently awarded the UQ Award for Excellence in Community.