Acknowledgement of Country
We respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri and Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation, and the Peek Whurrong people of the Maar Nation, as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which Deakin University’s Burwood, Melbourne City, Geelong, and Warrnambool campuses stand. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to their Ancestors, and acknowledge their continuing custodianship, care and connection to Country over many thousands of years. We recognise that sovereignty over Country was never ceded.
Our Impact at a glance
In 2024, the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation (ADI) achieved significant milestones in research funding, PhD completions, community engagement and policy advocacy. This section highlights our key accomplishments and the positive changes we’ve fostered locally and globally.

Research Centre Highlights
ADI leads several research centres that drive its strategic goals, producing world-leading scholarship, shaping policy agendas and making a tangible impact on the communities we serve. In 2024, these centres were at the forefront of groundbreaking studies and initiatives, significantly advancing our understanding of globalisation, citizenship and social equity. Explore our Centres’ 2024 highlights below to learn more about their remarkable contributions.

Centre for Contemporary Histories (CCH)
The Centre for Contemporary Histories (CCH) is a vibrant research hub that translates high-quality research into outcomes that are relevant and meaningful to contemporary society. In 2024, CCH excelled in producing impactful research, with members publishing numerous books, participating in high-profile events and featuring in various media outlets.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
The year saw several CCH members receiving prestigious accolades and promotions. Professor Cassandra Atherton was honoured with the title of Distinguished Professor, the highest recognition Deakin University bestows on its staff. Dr Bob Gartland received a Medal of the Order of Australia and an honorary doctorate. Mr Scott McCarthy won the Philip Brown Award, and Dr Jennifer Martin was awarded the Ann Moyal Fellowship.
Among a number of PhD completions, the work of Hirokazu Matsui stood out. In 2024, Hirokazu completed his PhD and returned to Tokyo to take up a job at the University of Tokyo.
CCH members were also recognised in the Faculty Awards for their outstanding contributions, with Associate Professor Clare Corbould, Dr Alyson Miller, Associate Professor Amy Nethery, Associate Professor Peter Ferguson, Associate Professor Zim Nwokora, Mr Andrew Young, Dr Ainsley McDonald, Dr Sarah Pinto, Dr Anna Kent, Dr Amanda Lourie and Mr Matthew Richards all celebrating Faculty awards for teaching, mentoring, supervising and research. Promotions were also announced for Dr Kerri Gerrard (to Senior Lecturer), Associate Professor Ian Warren and Associate Professor Bart Ziino (to Associate Professor), and Professor Tiffany Shellam (to Professor).
Community Engagement and Industry Collaboration
CCH’s commitment to community engagement and industry collaboration was evident through various initiatives including the opening of the Geelong Sports Museum (GSM) in July, with significant contributions from Associate Professor Tony Joel and Dr Bob Gartland OAM. Associate Professor Clare Corbould launched a new podcast, Presidency Pending, with Associate Professor Zim Nwokora, discussing the latest news on the 2024 US election. Dr Helen Young also made a Senate submission relating to the sources of right-wing extremism, based on her Future Fellowship research. A number of projects focused on the Pacific commenced in 2024, including significant work to mark the 50th anniversary of the independence of PNG. This work will continue in 2025.

Associate Professors Zim Nwokora and Clare Corbould recording the Presidency Pending podcast

Associate Professor Tony Joel speaking at the Geelong Sports Museum (GSM) Opening

The ribbon cutting at the GSM opening. In the centre is Dr Bob Gartland OAM, a member of the CCH Advisory Board
Publications and Media Appearances
CCH members made waves in both historical scholarship and public discourse throughout 2024. Dr Anna Kent’s groundbreaking book, Mandates and Missteps, offered the first comprehensive history of Australian government scholarships to the Pacific, while Professor Klaus Neumann’s Blumen und Brandsätze captivated readers with its fresh perspectives on the complex local and political debates in Germany regarding the acceptance of refugees and asylum seekers. Dr Michael Finch’s Making Makers: the Past, the Present, and the Study of War provided an insightful exploration of historical and contemporary conflicts.
Beyond their publications, CCH members actively engaged with the public through various media outlets. Twelve members of CCH contributed articles to The Conversation and featured in other outlets including Inside Indonesia, ABC Radio National and the Geelong Advertiser, discussing a wide range of topics from the underlying causes of the Papua New Guinea riots to the evolving gender dynamics in Australian election coverage. These contributions not only highlighted the Centre’s expertise but also sparked important conversations on contemporary issues.
Exploring History Through Insightful Seminars
In 2024, the Centre hosted a series of impactful seminars that highlighted diverse historical topics and fostered engaging discussions. This included presentations by PhD candidates, early-career researchers, experienced academics from across disciplines, public servants and librarians.

Left to right: Mx Max Billington, Ms Ana Rosa Marginson, Mr Liam Deterring and Ms Anna Wilkinson – the organisers of the CCH HDR Conference

Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies (CRIS)
The Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies (CRIS) is a collaborative, independent think-tank led by ADI at Deakin University. CRIS tackles some of society’s most pressing challenges, including racism, societal division, systemic bias, economic inequities, violent extremism and discrimination. This collaborative consortium includes Deakin University (lead), Western Sydney University, Victoria University, the Centre for Multicultural Youth and the Australian Multicultural Foundation.
Groundbreaking Publications on Online Safety, Racism, and Trust in Government
High-quality publications in 2024 included articles such as “Instead of banning kids from online spaces, here’s what we should offer them instead” by Professor Amanda Third and “Pandemic racism in Australia: A systematic review” by Dr Jehonathan Ben and Dr Amanuel Elias. Additionally, the article “Asian Australian’s Experiences and Reporting of Racism During the COVID-19 Pandemic” by Dr Alanna Kamp, Dr Rachel Sharples, Associate Professor Matteo Vergani and Dr Nida Denson was published in the Journal of Intercultural Studies.
Community trust in government institutions has been declining globally, raising concerns as trust is essential for societal cohesion. The 2024 report by Mr Mark Duckworth PSM, Dr Christine Horn, and Professor Michele Grossman AM, Do Governments Trust Communities? The Trust Flows Project Research Report, explored this issue. Based on interviews and roundtables with government and community workers, it provides guidelines to help governments rebuild trust, focusing on disaster recovery, emergency response and countering violent extremism. The report includes practical steps, principles, guidelines, and a Trust Checklist for building and sustaining trust.

Mr Mark Duckworth PSM presenting ABV at Sarsfield East Gippsland

Mark Duckworth PSM (middle) at the launch of Resilient Regions at Sarsfield East Gippsland
The Commonwealth Government’s 2024 Multicultural Framework Review supported this approach, emphasising the importance of mutual trust between government and communities. The Trust Checklist was recommended for use by the Multicultural Community Advisory Council to foster sustainable trust relationships.
Leading and Engaging in Influential Events on Youth Co-research and Social Cohesion
Public events played a crucial role in CRIS’s impact, including a youth co-research masterclass delivered at Western Sydney University’s Research Week in July. This masterclass shared practical tools from the Youth Co-research Toolkit for Researchers, with participants reporting key takeaways such as engaging a diversity of young people, understanding barriers and enablers of young people’s involvement, and ethics considerations.

Left to right: Professor Pip Collin (Co-Director, Youth Co-research Toolkit for Researchers), Yehansa Dahanayake (Youth Co-researcher), Jean Lewis (Youth Co-researcher), Louisa Welland (Research Officer), Daniel Prichard (Research Officer), Rose Lewis (Former Comms Coordinator) at the Youth Co-Research Masterclass
CRIS research was presented at various forums, including Professor Kevin Dunn’s speaker appearance at the Strengthening Social Cohesion Conference, where he participated in a panel discussing the factors contributing to social cohesion and democratic resilience in contemporary society.
Additionally, Mr Mark Duckworth PSM, Dr Christine Horn and Mr Obioma Ozioko presented at the ADI’s flagship conference, “Remaking Futures: Justice, Equality and Global Flourishing,” on public health crises and their social implications.

Mark Duckworth PSM presenting at the ADI 2024 Conference ‘Remaking Futures: Justice, Equality and Global Flourishing’
Building and Strengthening Strategic Partnerships for Community Impact
In 2024, CRIS continued to represent a national partnership between universities and community organisations working towards shared goals. Each of the six current CRIS projects has an embedded community partner to ensure relevant and strong co-design and outcomes that best suit community wants and needs. This deliberate structural approach ensures research is relevant to community programs and policy, creating effective, community-led outcomes.
Partnerships were strengthened and expanded, including partnerships with the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, No to Violence, and Victorian Multicultural Foundation, as well as existing consortium partners Centre for Multicultural Youth and Australian Multicultural Foundation. CRIS maintained its partnership with the Centre for Multicultural Youth and, along with the Explore Program, won the 2024 WSU Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor award for Research Excellence through Industry Collaboration and Partnership.
Influencing Government Policy and Engaging with Agencies
CRIS research was used by government agencies, with the Victorian Government using it to inform their updated CVE Strategy and new Anti-Racism Strategy and the Australian Human Rights Commission using it to inform their National Anti-Racism Strategy. Additionally, the Youth Co-research Toolkit was reported in use and a masterclass was requested by eSafety. The toolkit’s resources were also adapted to develop the Office for Youth’s Youth Engagement toolkit.
CRIS also made significant policy submissions, including a submission to the Proposal for Systemic Literature Review on Racism in Australian Universities, inquiries into the Criminal Code Amendment (Hate Crimes) Bill 2024, and Right-Wing Extremist Movements in Australia 2024. A formal response was provided to the Australian Universities Accord Final Report.
The “Asian Australian’s experience of racism during COVID-19” project saw the launch of a social media educational package, “Let’s Talk About Racism,” during WSU Social Science Week in October. This package was downloaded 73 times by government agencies, local health district organisations, school educators, not-for-profit and community organisations and academics in Australia and overseas.
Additionally, CRIS members were invited to contribute their expertise via a written submission to the Senate Inquiry into Right-wing Extremist Movements in Australia. Professor Michele Grossman AM, Mr Mark Duckworth PSM, Ms Lydia Khalil, Dr Vivian Gerrand and Associate Professor Josh Roose presented as witnesses at the public hearing for the same inquiry. Associate Professor Josh Roose also presented at a number of Australian Government and state government events for his expertise on misogyny and violent extremism. Additionally, Josh was an Expert Witness for State of Queensland in the Coronial Inquiry into the Wieambilla shooting on 12 December 2022, including by giving evidence under cross examination at the Inquest in August 2024.

From left to right: Mr Mark Duckworth PSM, Associate Professor Josh Roose, Professor Michele Grossman AM, Ms Lydia Khalil, Dr Vivian Gerrand and Dr Helen Young at Parliament House for the Senate Inquiry into Right-wing Extremist Movements in Australia

The UNESCO Chair for Comparative Research on Cultural Diversity and Social Justice
The UNESCO Chair for Comparative Research on Cultural Diversity and Social Justice at Deakin University was awarded in 2013 to ADI founding director, Deakin Distinguished Professor Fethi Mansouri. The Chair acts as a critical cross-sectoral forum for communities, researchers and policy makers to examine critical issues of diversity and social justice in our globally connected world. In 2024 the Chairholder made significant strides in advancing UNESCO’s mission, particularly in promoting intercultural dialogue and inclusive education.
UNESCO Initiatives and Workshops
In May, the Chairholder delivered a compelling presentation at the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Baku, Azerbaijan, discussing “The Role of Education and Youth Engagements in Combating Xenophobia and Discrimination.” Additionally, in early November, the Chairholder participated in a two-day academic workshop titled “Driving Intercultural Outcomes through Digital Literacy and Competence” at Stellenbosch University in South Africa.

Deakin Distinguished Professor Fethi Mansouri (second from left) at the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Baku, Azerbaijan

Deakin Distinguished Professor Fethi Mansouri speaking to the media at the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Baku, Azerbaijan
Joint Launch of Key Reports
A major milestone was the completion and launch of the Intercultural Dialogue Index (ICDI) website and report, which provides the first comprehensive framework for analysing intercultural dialogue at a national level and includes individual reports for 52 countries. This report was officially unveiled by Dr Hass Dellal AO, Executive Director of the Australian Multicultural Foundation, at an event attended by partners and stakeholders in November.

Dr Amanuel Elias, Professor Fethi Mansouri, Professor Simon Tormey and Dr Hass Dellal AM (AMF) holding the Intercultural Dialogue Index Report

Associate Professor Matteo Vergani, Professor Simon Tormey, Ms Nesreen Bottriell (AMWCHR), Dr Enqi Weng, Ms Katie Hall MP, Professor Fethi Mansouri, Ms Vivienne Nguyen AM (VMC) and Ms Farah Farouque (ECCV) at the launch of the Mapping Social Services Provision for Diverse Communities Report
On the same day, the Chairholder launched the report for one of its many projects namely, the Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Project Mapping Social Services Provision for Diverse Communities report. The launch was hosted by Professor Simon Tormey (Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts and Education), and featured reflections from Dr Hass Dellal AO (Chairperson of the Australian Multicultural Foundation), and Ms Katie Hall MP (Labor member for Footscray).
UNESCO Chair Oration
After disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual UNESCO Chair Oration was reinstated on 21 August 2024 at Deakin Downtown. The event featured a significant presentation by Mr Giridharan Sivaraman, Australian Race Discrimination Commissioner, on “The Racism of Benign Assimilation.” The oration foreshadowed the launch of Australia’s first National Anti-Racism Framework in December 2024. The event was introduced by Deakin University’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elizabeth Johnson and was recorded for public access.

Mr Giridharan Sivaraman, Race Discrimination Commissioner, delivering the 2024 UNESCO Chair Oration

From left to right: Deakin Distinguished Professors Fethi Mansouri and Liz Johnson, and Mr Giridharan Sivaraman
UNESCO Chair’s 2024 Initiatives Garner Widespread Media Attention
In 2024, the UNESCO Chair significantly influenced public discourse on social cohesion, racism and multiculturalism. Key contributions included discussions on the feasibility of ending racism in Australia, the complexities of migration politics and the importance of social cohesion amidst global conflicts. The Chair’s insights were featured in prominent outlets such as The Conversation, ABC Radio and SBS. These media appearances underscored the Chair’s role in advocating for a nuanced understanding of multiculturalism and addressing critical social issues.
ADI Research Networks Highlights
ADI’s Research Networks function as critical dissemination and engagement platforms. They transcend disciplinary, methodological and geographical boundaries, fostering collaborations across faculties, institutions and international borders. These dynamic internal and public-facing programs amplify ADI’s expertise, reaching and engaging targeted audiences worldwide. In 2024, ADI’s networks played a pivotal role in driving significant advancements and fostering impactful research. They hosted world-class projects, tackled complex societal challenges and provided strength-based solutions.
Read about the Networks’ 2024 highlights below.

The Addressing Violent Extremism and Radicalisation to Terrorism (AVERT) Research Network
Read highlights
Justice, Young People and Community Research Network (JYC)
Read highlights
Science and Society Network (SSN)
Read highlights
Middle Eastern Studies Forum (MESF)
Read highlightsOur research impact

Advocacy and Public Engagement
In 2024, ADI engaged with various levels of government in many innovative ways, addressing complex challenges in our society, locally, nationally and internationally. Our world-leading researchers shaped impactful submissions on right-wing extremism, AI governance in high-risk settings and support for trauma-affected children and youth from humanitarian crises.

Partnerships-led Research
In 2024, ADI forged new partnerships while sustaining ongoing collaborations with leading organisations across diverse fields and industries to create solutions and generate impactful change. With over 50 collaborations spanning more than 15 countries across 5 continents, ADI unites world-renowned practitioners, community organisations, government bodies and universities. Check out our list of current partnerships and 2024 case studies below to see how we are driving innovation and making a global impact.

ADI Events
In 2024, ADI brought together scholars, industry representatives, policymakers and community leaders to investigate ways that globalising forces in our lives and communities can power equitable and just change in society.
The year was marked by a series of impactful events that highlighted ADI’s commitment to addressing pressing societal challenges. Notable events included the ADI Conference “Remaking Futures: Justice, Equality and Global Flourishing”, Alfred Deakin Institute Oration, Policy Forums and Lunchtime Seminars.
2024 Alfred Deakin Institute Oration
On 21 October 2024, the Alfred Deakin Institute held its annual Oration at Deakin Downtown, Melbourne. Hosted by Deakin Distinguished Professors Liz Johnson and Fethi Mansouri, the event featured The Honourable Tony Burke MP. He discussed the evolving landscape of migration and multiculturalism, emphasising the need for strong leadership to navigate uncertainties from the COVID-19 pandemic and international conflicts. Mr Burke highlighted the importance of mutual respect and equality in Australia’s multicultural policies for societal wellbeing and inclusivity.

The Honourable Tony Burke MP delivering the 2024 Alfred Deakin Institute Oration

Audience members at the 2024 Alfred Deakin Institute Oration

Deakin signage at the 2024 Alfred Deakin Institute Oration

From left to right: Deakin Distinguished Professor Fethi Mansouri, The Honourable Tony Burke MP and Deakin Distinguished Professor Liz Johnson
2024 Conference
Held on 25–26 November at the Burwood Corporate Centre, the 2024 ADI Conference, “Remaking Futures: Justice, Equality and Global Flourishing,” addressed urgent global challenges. Keynote speakers, including Professors Loretta Baldassar and Pam Nilan, emphasised the role of Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) research in shaping policy responses to issues like the COVID-19 pandemic, climate disasters, and geopolitical conflicts. They advocated for transformative approaches to justice and equality.

Professor Pam Nilan delivering the keynote address on day two of the conference

Dr Enqi Weng presenting at the ADI conference

Professor Simon Tormey welcoming attendees on day one of the conference

Dr Luke Heemsbergen presenting at the conference

Professor Loretta Baldassar delivering the keynote on day one of the conference

Professor Greg Barton engaging in discussion at the conference
ADI Policy Forums
In 2024, ADI hosted three impactful policy forums, uniting policymakers, researchers, and community members to tackle pressing issues:
- March 21: The Year That Democracy Around the World Is Put to the Test (Mr Tito Ambyo, Dr Robert Horvath, Dr Padeep Taneja, and Dr Emma Shortis).
- August 8: The Future of Gaza: What Can Be Done? (Mr Yousef Alreemawi, Professor Shiri Krebs, Dr Michele Lesh, and Dr Andrew Thomas).
- September 5: Immigration and Refugee Policies at the Crossroad: Perspectives from Australia and Greece (Professor Karen Farquharson, Dr Ioannis E. Kotoulas and Deakin Distinguished Professor Fethi Mansouri)

From left to right: Professor Shiri Krebs, Mr Yousef Alreemawi, Dr Michele Lesh, Dr Andrew Thomas and Professor Greg Barton at the ADI Policy Forum on August 8
ADI Lunchtime Seminars
Our monthly ADI Lunchtime Seminars blend relaxation and intellectual stimulation with 20–30 minute talks on the latest research, followed by interactive Q&As. In 2024, we hosted eight seminars on diverse topics, including:
- February: Migrant Youth and Socio-Cultural Adaptation in the West (Deakin Distinguished Professor Fethi Mansouri, Dr Lori Beaman, Dr Serena Hussain)
- April: Accountability and the Roman Catholic Church: From Melbourne to Rome and Back (Dr John Morss)
- May: Peacebuilding and Transgenerational Resilience in the Southern Philippines (Dr Prime Ragandang)
- June: China’s Power Projection in the Middle East: Views from the Region (Professor Shahram Akbarzadeh, Dr Arif Saba)
- July: Iranian Women Building Peace at Home and Abroad: Utilizing Foresight for Peacebuilding in the Diaspora (Ms Shadi Rouhshahbaz)
- August: Liminality and the migration experience (Dr Vince Marotta)
- September: Towards a Good Parliamentary Exit (Dr Zim Nwokora)
- October: Examining Drivers of the Australian Youth Crime Decline (Dr Molly McCarthy)

Amplifying our voice in the media
ADI researchers experienced unprecedented media demand this year, with a staggering 998 media appearances and a potential audience reach of 198,612,094. They were sought after for their expert analysis on top themes dominating the news over the year, including the war between Israel and Gaza, the US presidential election, national security, terrorism and violent extremism, AI technologies and organised crime.
Leading Newsmakers
Professor Greg Barton was one of Deakin University’s most regular media commentators throughout the year and continued to be Australia’s leading expert on matters related to international affairs, national security and terrorism. His commentary was featured by numerous prestigious media outlets including The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald (SMH), The Herald Sun, 7News, Sky News, ABC radio, Schwartz Media’s leading 7am podcast, The Australian Financial Review, 2GB, 3AW, The Australian, SBS, Triple M, The Conversation and others.
Associate Professor Josh Roose firmly established himself as one of Australia’s leading authorities on violent extremism and right-wing political movements. His expertise was frequently showcased across major media outlets, including SBS News, The Guardian, Sky News, ABC News, ABC radio, The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald (SMH), 60 Minutes, The Australian, 7News, The Daily Mail and others.
Professor Shahram Akbarzadeh was highly sought after by both Australian and international media for his expert analysis on the Israel–Iran conflict and the subsequent ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. His insights were featured on SBS, ABC News, The Age, The Conversation, Reuters, TRT World, and numerous other prominent outlets.
Professor Michele Grossman and Ms Lydia Khalil were frequently consulted for their expertise on violent extremist ideologies amid rising domestic and international terror threats in Australia. They appeared on major platforms like ABC’s 7.30, SBS, The Guardian, The Herald Sun, The Daily Telegraph, The Australian, ABC Radio National and others.
Associate Professor Zim Nwokora emerged as a leading voice for Deakin University in the lead-up to the US election. His insightful commentary was featured on SBS News, 94.7 The Pulse, The Sydney Morning Herald and others.
Articles by ADI Researchers Featured in The Conversation
- Why would Islamic State attack Russia and what does this mean for the terrorism threat globally?
(Professor Greg Barton) - Why is the Sydney church stabbing an act of terrorism, but the Bondi tragedy isn’t?
(Professor Greg Barton) - Cate Blanchett, like most Australians, thinks she’s middle class. An expert on class explains why that matters
(Dr Rose Butler) - Reconstructing heritage after war: what we learned from asking 1,600 Syrians about rebuilding Aleppo
(Professor Benjamin Isakhan) - ‘I don’t really wanna consume his content’: what do young Australian men think of Andrew Tate?
(Associate Professor Josh Roose) - Threats and challenges to Australia’s democracy are well outlined in government report. Now for some action
(Associate Professor Carolyn Holbrook) - Kamala Harris refers to herself as a ‘woman of colour’. Is it okay if everyone else does too?
(Deakin Distinguished Professor Fethi Mansouri) - With Bangladesh on a knife’s edge, trapped Rohingya refugees are forced to turn to people smugglers or violent gangs
(Associate Professor Anthony Ware) - Murdoch to Musk: how global media power has shifted from the moguls to the big tech bros
(Professor Matthew Ricketson) - Trump and Harris trade insults and competing visions
(Professor Matthew Ricketson) - Iran’s leaders have everything to lose in a direct war with Israel. Why take such a massive risk?
(Professor Shahram Akbarzadeh) - ‘Survival sex’, ‘mob justice’ and more: the first independent study of abuse in the Australian Defence Force is damning
(Dr Mia Martin Hobbs) - As its conflict with Israel escalates, could Iran now acquire a nuclear bomb?
(Professor Shahram Akbarzadeh and Dr Ali Mamouri) - Is Donald Trump a fascist? No – he’s a new brand of authoritarian
(Associate Professor Geoff M Boucher) - New research shows people can’t tell the difference between human and AI poetry – and even prefer the latter. What gives?
(Dr Andrew Dean) - Can we end racism in Australia? Yes, according to the first-ever national plan
(Deakin Distinguished Professor Fethi Mansouri and Dr Amanuel Elias) - Bashar al-Assad’s regime has fallen in Syria. How will this change the Middle East?
(Dr Ali Mamouri) - Rupert Murdoch loses his legal battle, leaving future of media empire in the balance
(Professor Matthew Ricketson)