How might relational infrastructure enable better flows of knowledge in service of the public good - regeneration of the Birrarung River.
This project explores how relational infrastructure can enable more effective and coherent flows of Monash Knowledge (i.e. research, education and engagement) in service of the public good. Building on Monash University's 2025 report Advancing University Living Labs: Relational Infrastructure for Transformative Impact, it prototypes the next evolution of the Monash Living Lab as a platform that bridges knowledge and action. Working at the intersection of Regen Melbourne and Monash University, the project applies this approach to the challenge-led Swimmable Birrarung Earthshot. It combines three workstreams: (1) developing a "map" to allow wayfinding across Monash's knowledge ecosystem; (2) activating the map through relational practices and spaces; and (3) structuring for adaptability and aliveness. Through a 2026 Monash Industry Consulting Project, students will map relevant domains, channels, experts and projects relevant to the Swimmable Birrarung challenge, to help facilitate visibility and access to Monash knowledge that could be more coherently unlocked and integrated in service of the regeneration of waterways.
We identify needs and pathways to create coherence through relational infrastructure that encourages flows of knowledge in service of the public good. Co-design of sub-projects, supervising of students, research activation and storytelling.
Monash Industry Consulting Project starting in March 2026 and over semester 1 to map the existing domains, channels and research experts at Monash University relevant to the Swimmable Birrarung challenge and regeneration of waterways.
Various nature walks and conversations on the need for relational infrastructure and imagining a collaborative research ecosystem in service of the public good and the river
Monash Living Lab report is made public
Project co-design by the river
Start of Monash Industry Consulting Project
Research, guides, and stories from the work underway.
