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Professor Philip Oldfield from the School of Built Environment weighs in on the NSW Planning Minister’s remarks on the need for more residential development in the CBD. He acknowledges the benefits and challenges of this proposal, pointing out that as a centre of commerce and business, “it’s going to be really challenging to get that mix right.” 

Have we become over-reliant on smartwatch devices to track our health? Professor Deborah Lupton from the Centre for Social Research in Health and the Social Policy Research Centre explains that they can be a useful tool when users "don't just trust the data" but equally "rely on their own embodied knowledge about their bodies." [Timestamp 8:23]

Associate Professor Pan Wang from the School of Humanities & Languages discusses the significance of the Chinese Lunar New Year. She explains how the customary traditions and activities, from lion dancing to lighting fireworks, reflects "positive symbolism" and showcases "national and cultural identity." [Timestamp 1:46:38] 

How can teachers better support gifted children who are underachieving? Professional Doctorate Candidate Jacqueline Hardman from the School of Education shares insights from her short course as part of the GERRIC program, emphasising the importance of talent development “especially in the areas of strength and interest.” [Timestamp 1:01:15]

Amid the growing demand for better high-density housing options for Australian families, Professor Phil Oldfield from the School of Built Environment shares his insights on a newly developed four-bedroom unit. He highlights the advantages of its dual-aspect layout, which allows for "cross-ventilation on warmer days."

Professor Felicity Fenner from the School of Art & Design discusses the state government's significant investment in commissioning public artworks for the new Sydney Metro. She explains how this initiative has "catapulted Sydney into the arena of proper grown-up cities" and "further elevates our status" globally. 

How can innovative software help predict bushfire behaviour? Scientia Professor Dennis Del Favero and other members from the Centre for Interactive Cinema Research have generated visualisations to simulate various scenarios, ranging from moderate to catastrophic, to better support future emergency response strategies and improve community outcomes.

Professor Michael Salter from the School of Social Sciences weighs in on the Coalition's commitment, if elected, to increasing funding and resources to address the "rapid increase and mutation of child sexual exploitation." He also points out the need for an agency specifically focused on the welfare of children who are victimised.

The soaring popularity of Chinese reality television series, See You Again, has sparked debate on relationship norms and longstanding societal taboos. According to Associate Professor Pan Wang from the School of Humanities & Languages, the show has served to "de-privatise and normalise divorce”. 

Dr Michael Garbutt from the School of Art & Design discusses his new book, Mindful Eye, Playful Eye, which is set to "transform your next museum visit." He explains how this is done by engaging the mind, body and imagination in various exercises, inviting audiences to relate to the world in new and innovative ways. [Timestamp 0:39:40]

Scientia Professor Jill Bennett from the Big Anxiety Research Centre underscores the crucial role AI-based companions can play in addressing social isolation among elderly and vulnerable Australians. She stresses that "having someone validate your experience in the moment is very important".

Amid growing international demand, what is the future of AI companion pets? According to Dr Belinda Dunstan from the Creative Robotics Lab, the technology behind social robots is becoming more sophisticated, enabling "learning and a lot more nuanced performance of emotional expression".

Dr Tracy Huang from the School of Built Environment explains how social media users have become "participants in the design of our spaces." She highlights the way governments and organisations leverage social media data to bolster tourism, while cautioning against an over-reliance on this "techno-centric" approach.

New projections reveal how Sydney's growing population will impact the city's shared infrastructure and amenities. Professor Christopher Pettit from the City Futures Research Centre suggests implementing better medium-density housing solutions and revising strata complexes to include green spaces.

A new report has revealed that rough sleepers in regional areas across Australia has risen by 51% since 2020. Lead author Professor Hal Pawson from the City Futures Research Centre attributes this to the ongoing housing crisis and insufficient social housing, stressing the urgent need for comprehensive policy changes.