Launch of the SDGs in Action Seminar Series
The Local SDGs Program:
Charting pathways towards achieving the SDGs in local communities
On Wednesday 19 February, The Local SDGs Program presented the first seminar at the inaugural SDGs in Action Seminar Series which explores innovative cross-sector initiatives that use the SDGs framework as a tool for better decision-making and planning. This event was held at the Monash Sustainable Development Institute city office.
A packed house comprised of people from universities, state & local government, civil society, business and more participated in the first of the SDGs in Action Seminar Series. Another 40 people from around the country registered for live streaming of a stellar line up of speakers and panellists who shared their experiences and insights.
Prof John Thwaites (Chair, SDSN AusNZPac & Monash Sustainable Development Institute) warmly welcomed all attendees and provided an overview of the seminar series and this seminar.
Dr Enayat A. Moallemi (Research Fellow, Local SDGs Program, Deakin University) facilitated the sharing of each key stakeholder’s perspective on the Local SDGs Program and the use of the SDGs. Speakers discussed:
their role and why they became involved
the benefits of using the SDGs framework for this program
if and how it is being used more broadly
the barriers in using the SDGs framework
recommendations to help others in engaging with the SDGs
Prof Brett Bryan (Alfred Deakin Professor & Local SDGs Program and Planet-A Director, Deakin University) provided an overview of the program and research team perspective.
Please use only with permission. Copyright © 2020 The Local SDGs Program.
Katrina Szetey (PhD Candidate, Deakin University, on behalf of the community representatives) provided insight into the Forrest/Otways community perspective.
Please use only with permission. Copyright © 2020 The Local SDGs Program.
David Rourke (Regional Manager Forest and Fire Planning, Barwon South West Region, Forest, Fire and Regions, DELWP) presented the State Government perspective.
Dr Shirin Malekpour (Senior Lecturer & Program Social Science Lead, Monash University) then facilitated a discussion with the Program team including Q&A with the audience both present and online:
(From Left) Prof Brett Bryan - Dianty Ningrum - David Rourke - Reinaneh Bandari - Katrina Szetey -
Dr Enayat A. Moallemi - Dr Shirin Malekpour
Prof John Thwaites then closed the seminar with insightful and encouraging words which was followed by drinks and nibbles and the opportunity for all to discuss local SDGs further.
