My research explores the intersections of gender equality, women’s empowerment, and public policy, with a strong focus on sustainable development, climate change adaptation, and social inclusion. I am particularly interested in how global and national governance structures influence the implementation of gender-responsive and inclusive policies, especially in the Global South.

Drawing on over two decades of interdisciplinary work across academia, government, and international NGOs, my work critically examines power, resilience, and institutional change—particularly in the areas of workplace gender inequality, gendered impacts of climate change, and inclusive food systems. I have led and contributed to research and training initiatives on leadership, policy reform, and social justice, with a regional emphasis on Southeast Asia and the Pacific. My current interests also include the politics of development, climate-resilient agriculture, and the role of gender in global political economy and sustainable governance.

• 20+ years of experience across academia, government, and international development in Australia, Vietnam, the U.S., and the Mekong region.

• Over 10 years of university teaching, including as a Lecturer at Flinders University in political science, public policy, and sustainable development, with consistently high student satisfaction.

• Led and contributed to $10M+ in international projects on gender equality, women’s leadership, social inclusion, and climate change adaptation.

• Key contributor to Flinders Gender Consortium, supporting DFAT-funded leadership training and policy exchange programs for 400+ women across eight countries.

• Strong track record in policy reform, including contributions to Vietnam’s Labour Code, ILO Convention 190, and national CEDAW reporting.

• Former Country Director and Program Lead with CARE International and CWS, advancing inclusive governance, education, and community-led development in Southeast Asia.

• Experienced in curriculum design, strategic education planning, international academic partnerships, and exchange program coordination.

• Proven expertise in research collaboration and grants development, securing multi-partner funding from DFAT, Aus4Skills, Ford Foundation, and other bilateral donors.

CARE International in Vietnam and the Mekong Countries

CWS America in Vietnam and the Mekong Countries

Professor Thuy Pham- Public policy at CBGL- Flinders University

Car Ellickson, Director of Flinders Gender Consortium

Senior Lecturer, Rajesh Johnsam at CBGL- Flinders University

Professor  Laura Vang Rasmussen, The University of Copenhagen (UCPH)

Dr Mahan Poorhosseinzadeh, ECU 

Professor Yvonne Corcoran-Nantes, HASS College, Flinders University

Professor Janet McIntyre, Adelaide University