Georges River Council is strengthening its partnerships with leading universities to support skills, jobs and environmental research across the local area.
Council is working with:
University of New South Wales (UNSW).
University of Technology Sydney (UTS).
Macquarie University.
Western Sydney University.
These partnerships bring new ideas into Council. They also build local skills and support better, evidence-based decision-making.
For the 2026 Georges River Youth Festival, the Council teamed up with UNSW UNOVA to run two workshops for young people. Participants learned how to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help with their studies and build a simple AI study tool. They also learned about managing money, including budgeting, saving and understanding interest rates. These sessions helped young people build practical, future-ready skills.
Through the UTS Industry Innovation Program, eight postgraduate students worked with Council. They explored ways to improve the night-time economy. The students connected with the community at local night markets. They analysed feedback and developed a Night Time Economy Strategy. Their recommendations will help support local businesses and increase activity at night.
Council is also working with students from Macquarie University and Western Sydney University on environmental research projects. These projects focus on urban heat, biodiversity and climate resilience. They include street tree planting, habitats for wildlife and flying fox populations at Myles Dunphy Reserve. The findings will help guide future planning and environmental management.
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg said, “These partnerships are delivering strong outcomes for our community.
“Partnering with universities allows us to bring renewed thinking into Council. It also supports the next generation of workers and leaders.
“These programs are helping us respond to key challenges and build a more sustainable and resilient Georges River.”
Partnering with universities gives Council access to research, skilled students and industry networks. It also creates learning and career opportunities within the local area.
Council will keep partnering with universities to support innovation, skills and environmental leadership.
