I am a marine social-ecologist focused primarily on the governance of the global ocean. My research interests are broadly centred on the governance of ocean acidification, deep sea mining, the ocean commons, and the ocean-climate nexus. My research explores architectures of governance and future governance imaginaries, along with the roles that scientific knowledge and problem framing play in decision-making and the uptake of environmental issues on governance agendas. My research is situated at the intersection of international environmental law, conservation biology and environmental sociology.

Dr Eliza Middleton is an ecologist who has spent the last 20 years working at the intersection of science, people, and place. With a background in invertebrate ecology, biodiversity assessment, and science communication, Eliza began her career in academia, driven by a passion for understanding how ecosystems function and how best to care for them. In 2024, she made the transition into professional services, joining Water Technology to help bridge the growing gap between business and Nature. Her focus now is on making biodiversity and conservation more than just compliance, working alongside organisations to embed ecological thinking and Nature-positive strategies into everyday decision-making. Eliza’s approach is grounded in deep listening and meaningful collaboration. She regularly partners with Traditional Owners, researchers, and practitioners to co-design solutions that reflect both ecological integrity and cultural values. Her work across NSW, QLD, the NT and ACT has given her a deep appreciation for the diversity, and complexity, of our landscapes and communities. At the heart of Eliza’s work is a belief that ecosystems are not just resources, but relationships. She’s committed to building those relationships, with Country, with community, and across disciplines, to create more connected, resilient, and just futures. Uncle Wayne will co-present

Maddi Miller is a Dharug woman living and working on unceded Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Wilam Biik. She is is currently a Lecturer at The University of Melbourne. Maddi’s research focuses on storytelling as a mechanism for bringing together multiple ways of knowing Country. Maddi is a Biodiversity Councilor.

Dr Judy Bush is a Senior DECRA Research Fellow (2024-2027). Her research centres on nature-based solutions for the climate change-biodiversity nexus in cities, focused on environmental policy and governance perspectives, including collaborative governance, sustainability transitions and resilience. Prior to undertaking her PhD she has worked with alliances of local government on climate change action, community engagement and waterways restoration in Melbourne Australia. She holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) and a Master of Environment.

Christina is a PhD candidate at BehaviourWorks Australia, Monash Sustainable Development Institute. Her research is exploring whether and in what ways the Yarra River Protection (Wilip-gin Birrarung murron) Act 2017 is creating pathways to shift mindsets (individual and institutional) in how people relate to Birrarung as a living entity.