A prototype artificial intelligence-powered camera incorporated into an intelligent road sign has successfully detected and recorded a koala crossing a road in real-time on the Redlands Coast, marking the first time this technology has been proven in the field.
This development expands on previous research led by Griffith University that built an AI-powered database to detect and record koalas at various high-use transport crossings, and confirms intelligent detection systems can play a critical role in preventing wildlife-vehicle collisions and saving lives.
The trial, led by researchers from Griffith’s School of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in partnership with the New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), Telstra and Redland City Council, was part of a broader initiative funded under the New South Wales Koala Strategy to reduce koala road fatalities and support population recovery.
This footage in 2022 was captured by AI-powered cameras developed by the Griffith research team, adding to the team’s database for training the technology to be deployed in the real-time road sign detection project.
Griffith University had been trialling the system on the Redlands Coast since March 2025. Using edge computing – which is a decentralised IT architecture that processed data near its source – and real-time video analysis, the technology demonstrated it could detect koalas in real time as they approached or crossed a road.
This successful detection laid the groundwork for future systems that could trigger roadside warning signs and improve driver responsiveness.
Deputy Head of School of ICT Professor Jun Zhou said traditional static road signage failed to address the unpredictable timing and location of koala movements.
A koala mother and joey at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, who have supported the Griffith team’s training of the AI database.
“Drivers become desensitised after repeated exposure to signs without encountering wildlife, reducing their responsiveness when real hazards arise,” Professor Zhou said.
“This issue is further amplified during low-light conditions – particularly between dusk and dawn – when koalas are most active and visibility is poor.”
Koalas were facing unprecedented threats, with populations at risk due to habitat loss, disease, dog attacks and road mortality.
As urban development continued to encroach on koala habitats, koalas were increasingly at risk of a car strike as they attempted to cross roads.
“The successful detection of a koala proves the concept works,” Professor Zhou said.
“With further investment, this pilot can be expanded into a scalable solution that protects more wildlife and improves public safety across high-risk corridors.
“This is more than a tech milestone – it’s a turning point. We now have the ability to intervene before tragedy strikes. Expanding this system could be a game-changer for koala conservation and road safety.”
Professor Jun Zhou
“By creating responsive infrastructure that adapts to koala behaviour, we’re aiming to reduce road fatalities and safeguard one of Australia’s most iconic species.”
This development followed research contributed by Griffith University’s Dr Douglas Kerlin that found the koala population in Redlands City Council had stabilised with no evidence of continued decline since 2018.
Redland City Council Mayor Jos Mitchell said the findings reflected years of council investment in science-based conservation, technology and community-led programs.
Griffith University and the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) have announced a world‑first Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiative that will formally award academic credit to Australian Olympians undertaking undergraduate study at Griffith.
The announcement was made at the G’Day LA conference in Los Angeles where Tourism and Australia and the AOC unveiled several ground-breaking initiatives.
Naomi McCarthy OAM OLY, Curtis McGrath OAM PLY, Deputy Chancellor Rebecca Frizelle OAM and Vice President (Industry and External Engagement) Professor Bronwyn Harch.
As the exclusive Australian Olympic Pathway University, Griffith has a long-standing reputation for supporting elite athletes, with the AOC recognising the University’s exceptional commitment to helping Olympians and balance high-performance sport with education. This partnership has contributed to Griffith being the leading Australian university for Olympian representation and results across the Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Games.
Under the enhanced partnership, Griffith and the AOC conducted detailed mapping of the unique skills developed through the Olympic pathway. Resilience, discipline, leadership, time management, and high-performance focus were key findings in assessing key capabilities. These align closely with Griffith’s undergraduate learning outcomes, enabling the University to formally recognise competencies through academic credit.
Eligible Olympians verified by the AOC will receive up to 40 credit points (CP) at Level 1 in Flexible Module Electives, subject to program requirements.
The initiative is expected to save current Olympians valuable time and money as they progress through their studies. Approximately eight Olympians currently studying at Griffith are already accessing or applying for this credit.
The program also supports retired Olympians transitioning into post‑sport careers by acknowledging the professional capabilities built over years of elite competition.
Deputy Chancellor Rebecca Frizelle OAM.
Naomi McCarthy OAM, Director of Griffith Sport College said the initiative reflects Griffith’s leadership in athlete development.
“For many Olympians, this will be a game changer. Griffith is proud to formally recognise the extraordinary dedication and expertise these athletes bring from their sporting careers. Sport is finite, but education opens pathways—and this initiative supports our athletes in preparing for life beyond the arena.”
Critical analysis and decision making is key for both elite training, performance as well as education”.
Mark Arbib, AOC CEO praised the initiative which will help put many Olympians on the pathway to a degree.
“This is a fantastic initiative for Australian Olympians. We see first-hand the inspiration and national pride that Olympians bring to our nation, but we don’t always see the hard work and sacrifice that goes into their daily lives, behind the scenes.
“This initiative recognises their role in Australian society as well as their years of high-performance dedication, planning and execution. We hope that this reform by Griffith University will enable more Australian Olympians to complete higher education and position themselves for a life after sport.
Sport College student and track-and-field sprinter Torrie Lewis said RPL is a clear winner.
“RPL not only saves us time and money throughout our degree but also frees up valuable energy for training and competitions. Reducing that layer of stress makes a real difference, allowing us to perform at our best both academically and athletically.”
Bachelor of Cyber Security student and Olympian Torrie Lewis.
The strengthened Griffith–AOC partnership also includes expanded scholarships valued up to $40,000, tailored study pathways and flexible learning options to ensure Australia’s Olympians can excel both academically and athletically.
Bachelor of Cyber Security student and Olympian Torrie Lewis
Technologies, such as extended reality, is at the core of a new study looking into how technologies can be more effectively integrated into cancer care for paediatric patients.
Dr Karin Plummer
Dr Karin Plummer from Griffith University’s School of Nursing and Midwifery has launched the XR4Kids study to understand families’ and clinicians’ experiences, identify barriers to access, and explore how XR could be safely and sustainably implemented to support children during cancer treatment.
“While virtual reality is being used in some hospitals, access varies significantly and it is rarely embedded into routine cancer treatment pathways,” Dr Plummer said.
“Cancer treatment can be a difficult and distressing time for children and we want to prevent long-term physical and psychological impact on the patient.
“That’s when technology can help as it assists in managing pain and distress by changing what the brain pays attention to.
“To delve into the different aspects of extended reality technology and its benefits, we’ll hear from families, children and young people aged 8-18 years with lived experience of childhood cancer treatment, and healthcare professionals with interest or experience using extended reality in children’s cancer care.”
Participants from around the country would be invited to either join a small online community or take part in an online interview.
Dr Plummer said the research was important as it explored safer, non-invasive ways to reduce children’s pain during cancer care.
“Virtual reality immerses children in engaging experiences which draw attention away from pain, giving them greater comfort and a sense of control alongside standard medical care,” she said.
“Additionally, we also want it to be easy to use for clinicians.”
The study will run from 9-16 March.
For more information on the study or to register your interest, click here.
A Griffith University career consultant says international internship experience is becoming a decisive advantage for graduates entering an increasingly competitive job market.
Belinda Murphy, Career Development Consultant at Griffith, says academic performance alone is no longer enough to differentiate candidates.
“Employers are looking for evidence that students can apply their knowledge in complex, real-world settings,” she says. “That’s where international Work-Integrated Learning experiences can make a significant difference.”
One such opportunity is the Griffith Asia Business Internship (GABI), delivered by the Griffith Asia Institute within Griffith Business School and led by Dr Andrea Haefner. The program provides students with a structured, professionally supported international internship designed to strengthen long-term employability.
Building the skills employers want
According to Ms Murphy, there is a clear link between international experience and graduate success. Students who undertake overseas or cross-cultural internships commonly develop adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills, confidence in navigating ambiguity, and stronger problem-solving and teamwork capabilities.
“These are not ‘nice to have’ qualities,” she says. “They are core workplace competencies.”
The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 identifies resilience, flexibility and agility, analytical and creative thinking, curiosity and lifelong learning, and leadership among the fastest-growing skills toward 2030. Programs such as GABI foster these capabilities by placing students in unfamiliar organisational and cultural contexts, where they must observe, adapt and contribute.
From experience to employability
Ms Murphy emphasises that the long-term value of an international internship lies not only in the experience itself, but in how students reflect on and articulate it.
“Students may find themselves working with people who have different values or communication styles, or undertaking tasks outside their comfort zone,” she says. “Being able to describe how you adapted, solved problems and contributed to a team strengthens your performance in applications and interviews.”
Work-Integrated Learning programs are designed to prepare students for what she describes as the “unknown world of work” — offering a supported environment in which to test skills, build professional confidence and refine career direction.
She also notes that adjustment challenges are part of the process.
“Learning to ask questions, seek feedback and reflect on your growth is professional development in action,” she says.
A strategic investment
Students who complete international internships frequently report increased resilience, flexibility and self-management, as well as greater clarity around career goals and a broader global perspective.
Ms Murphy describes GABI as more than an overseas opportunity.
“It’s a strategic investment in your future employability,” she says. “It helps you move from simply having a degree to being able to demonstrate capability, adaptability and global awareness.”
In a rapidly changing world of work, she argues, those qualities are what set graduates apart.
Griffith University’s Careers and Employability team is also encouraging students to take advantage of the support available alongside programs such as GABI.
The team offers a range of services designed to help students continue developing—and clearly articulating—their professional capabilities. These include webinars and workshops, one-on-one career appointments available both face-to-face and online, the Industry Mentoring Program, Careers Fairs, and registration with Griffith Talent.
Students can also access career readiness online modules and explore opportunities through the Career Hub jobs board.
For personalised support or further information, students are encouraged to contact the team at [email protected].
A new partnership agreement will see Griffith University provide guaranteed credit to TAFE Queensland students who have completed 12 months of study.
It represents a renewed commitment between Griffith and TAFE Queensland to improve access for students between vocational education and training (VET) and higher education.
Students who completed TAFE Queensland diplomas will receive the equivalent of one year’s worth of study in credit towards at least 11 degrees in the same area of study.
Degrees include:
Bachelor of Business
Bachelor of Computer Science
Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours)
Bachelor of Cyber Security
Bachelor of Design
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Bachelor of Film & Screen Media Production
Bachelor of Game Design & Production
Bachelor of Information Technology
Bachelor of International Tourism & Hotel Management
Bachelor of Nursing
Vice Chancellor and President Professor Carolyn Evans
Griffith Vice Chancellor and President, Professor Carolyn Evans said providing pathways for Queenslanders to access tertiary education was important for the community.
“Through a formal collaboration with TAFE Queensland we will strengthen our existing efforts to streamline pathways for VET students into higher education,” Professor Evans said.
The partnership will also include the opportunity for TAFE Queensland educators and Griffith University academics to share innovations in teaching.
“A resilient and agile Queensland workforce needs the skills, knowledge and capabilities that are offered by both VET and higher education.
“This unique partnership puts the student at the centre and recognises the nonlinear reality of Queenslander’s education and careers.”
Students who have completed a diploma in a different area of study will also be eligible for the equivalent of six months credit towards more than 40 university degrees.
TAFE Queensland Acting General Manager for the Brisbane region Shayne Ostwald said the agreement reflected a long‑standing partnership with Griffith University and a shared commitment to improving access, pathways and outcomes for students.
“This agreement builds on more than 25 years of collaboration between Griffith University and TAFE Queensland, creating stronger, clearer pathways for students to move between vocational education and higher education,” Mr Ostwald said.
“By aligning our programs and recognising prior learning, we are improving access, expanding learning opportunities, and delivering better outcomes for students, while supporting the skills Queensland’s future workforce needs.”
Following a silver medal performance and two remarkable Olympic debuts, Griffith University is proud to celebrate the exceptional efforts of three elite athletes who represented both Australia and the University at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Games.
Four-time Olympian and Bachelor of Communications alumnus Danielle Scott brought home her first Olympic silver medal, scoring 102.17 for an outstanding performance in the Women’s Aerials.
Ms Scott also competed in the Mixed Aerial Ski Team event where Australia just missed out on a medal, finishing in 4th place.
Celebrating her tremendous contribution, Ms Scott was chosen to carry the Australian flag at the spectacular closing ceremony.
Environmental Science and Business student Jackson Harvey.
Griffith was also represented by Environmental Science and Business student Jackson Harvey, who made his Olympic debut with Australia’s freestyle mogul ski team.
He also reached the final in his freestyle mogul event, a massive achievement for a first-time Olympian.
Mr Harvey was recently awarded Griffith’s 2025 Academic Athlete of the Year in recognition of his ability to maintain a high GPA while balancing the demands of elite sport.
Bachelor of Psychological Science student Sidney Stephens received a late call to join the Australian Aerials team just days before competition.
Griffith Sports College Director Naomi McCarthy OAM OLY.
As an AIS-Griffith University Sport Scholarship recipient, her dedication and determination enabled her to make her Olympic debut with an impressive performance, finishing 15th in her event.
Griffith Sports College Director Naomi McCarthy OAM OLY travelled to Italy to support Griffith students, and said it was an experience she would never forget.
“It was a privilege to support Griffith students Jackson Harvey and Sid Stephens in moguls and watch our alumnus Danielle Scott win her first Olympic medal in aerial skiing,” Ms McCarthy said.
“As the exclusive Australian Olympic Pathway University, and official partner of the 2026 Australian Olympic team, it was wonderful to be supported by the Australian Olympic Committee.”
Bachelor of Psychological Science student Sidney Stephens at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.
Just like a human newborn, coral larvae need just the right environment to settle and begin their new life.
Understanding the ideal surface geometry for coral settlement and early growth was the shared goal of a new research project led by Griffith University with the support of Monsoon Aquatics.
These tiles were placed in tanks at Monsoon Aquatics’ Bundaberg facility, where Acropora corals were successfully settled, allowing valuable insights into how surface design could improve coral settlement and growth.
The settlement rate of Dr Linaraki’s tiles was more than four times higher on average, relative to a standard flat ceramic tile under the same conditions.
“Corals begin their coral spawning journey as free-swimming larvae, where they remain in the water column for days to weeks before settling onto suitable surfaces, undergoing metamorphosis, and growing into new coral colonies,” Dr Linaraki said.
“Working with living systems takes time, so it’s especially rewarding to see meaningful results after two years of experimentation.
“Since corals were the ‘clients’ in this context, this study investigated the best possible habitats to support their growth and survival.
“It’s inspiring to see how architectural design can contribute to the adaptation of corals, and how spatial strategies can actively inform coral habitats.”
Monsoon Aquatics Head Scientist Dr Jonathan Moorhead said research that helped the team understand coral settlement preferences and dynamics, and assisted in promoting optimal conditions for newly settled coral to grow quickly, was warmly welcomed at their Bundaberg Research facility.
“Dr Linaraki’s work fits into our goals and aspirations to understand coral reproduction and settlement, and be leaders in sustainable coral farming for the aquarium trade and reef restoration efforts.”
Dr Jonathan Moorhead, Monsoon Aquatics
“Monsoon Aquatics is uniquely placed to build sustainability into the global aquarium trade and contribute to growing efforts in reef and marine habitat restoration in Australia through conservation aquaculture activities.”
Nine biomimetic designs were created using Maya and Rhinoceros 3D to optimise surfaces for coral settlement aiming to support the attachment and growth of different coral types.
The research investigates what surfaces, materials and colours are most enticing for coral settlement.
A total of 85 prototypes measuring 15cm × 15cm were made, incorporating five materials –3D printed PETG, concrete, oyster concrete, coral concrete and clay – and seven colour variations – sand, translucent green, translucent brown, bright red and pink, brownish-red and grey.
“The impact of architectural design on the construction of large-scale artificial reefs to promote coral attachment and growth has largely been overlooked, and to the best of our knowledge, no similar study has tested the architectural design of these structures in a systematic way,” Dr Linaraki said.
“This research suggests incorporating corals as fundamental design elements could lead to structures that self-grow, self-adapt, and self-maintain, reducing the need for additional funding, materials, and technological resources over time, while increasing the ecosystem services and providing habitats for corals and other living organisms.”
The ongoing study would investigate how material and colour influenced the habitation of coral larvae.
Further research would explore the synergy of architecture with ecology for the construction of large-scale structures in the water that could support both human and coral habitation.
“The Great Barrier Reef is a national treasure, and deserves the very best care and protection,” said Daniel Kimberley, Director of Monsoon Aquatics.
“Despina’s work will advance our understanding of effective coral conservation aquaculture which is an essential component of scalable reef restoration, not only in Australia but globally.”
For many students, the idea of an international internship feels exciting — but also slightly intimidating. New country. New culture. Real workplaces. Real expectations.
For three Griffith students who took part in the 2025 Griffith Asia Business Internships (GABI) Program, that leap became one of the most defining experiences of their degree. The GABI Program is run by the Griffith Asia Institute within the Griffith Business School and is led by Dr Andrea Haefner.
Through the support of the New Colombo Plan (NCP) grant, students undertook six-week professional internships across Asia, stepping out of the classroom and into start-ups, law firms, and global businesses where their contributions genuinely mattered.
Importantly, students were supported not only before departure, but also once they arrived in-country. Global WIL Coordinator, Bruna Macedo, met with students during the early stages of their internships to ensure they had arrived safely, settled into their accommodation, and were comfortable in their new environments. During these visits, Bruna also met with key industry partners to strengthen relationships and ensure the quality and safety of placements for current and future students.
Working on sustainability projects across three continents – From a start-up hub in Seoul
Natalia Drazek
Natalia Drazek, studying a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Business Management, interned with EcoLinks, a start-up located in the Seoul Startup Hub in South Korea.
From her first day, Natalia was immersed in meaningful work that stretched far beyond the office walls.
“I worked on projects that spanned Rwanda, South Africa, and Ethiopia, helping to develop sustainability frameworks that guide the company’s international operations. Seeing how decisions made in Seoul could directly affect projects thousands of kilometers away was both exciting and humbling.”
Working in a start-up environment meant adapting quickly, solving problems in real time, and collaborating across multiple time zones.
“I remember one video call with team members in three countries, whereby by the end we had found a solution I never thought I would be part of as an intern. Moments like that showed me what international business really looks like in practice.”
Outside of work, navigating Seoul’s transport system, discovering hidden food spots, and sharing meals with colleagues built just as much learning as the internship itself.
“GABI gave me confidence, perspective, and a clearer sense of the career I want.”
Observing a Japanese trial and experiencing law beyond Australia
Jameelah Noor
For Jameelah Noor, a law student, her internship at Ugajin International Law Firm in Tokyo offered something she felt her degree was missing — an international perspective on legal practice.
“I was fortunate to visit the lawyer’s association building, district courts, and even observe a Japanese trial. I had studied law within Australia countless times, but I felt I lacked an international understanding of my field. The internship helped fill this gap.”
Jameelah also experienced the cultural side of Japan alongside fellow interns, navigating language barriers, public transport, and iconic sites.
“While my experience challenged me at times, I developed my independence and self-reliance while navigating a different culture, language and climate.”
Stepping outside the comfort zone – and into international marketing
Brianna Margetts completed her internship with Arkit Global in Tokyo as a marketing intern, despite not majoring in marketing. What she gained were highly transferable skills for her future career in sport management.
“The team made an effort to understand my goals so they could tailor tasks to my career aspirations. The knowledge, skills and connections I gained over the six weeks are invaluable.”
A highlight of Brianna’s experience was attending a Griffith alumni networking event at the Australian Embassy in Tokyo.
“It gave me a new perspective on what working outside of Australia is really like.”
More than an internship
A common theme across all three students was how much the NCP grant enabled them to fully engage in the experience without financial stress.
More importantly, each student spoke about growth that went beyond professional skills:
Confidence in unfamiliar environments
Cultural awareness and adaptability
Independence and resilience
A clearer vision of future career pathways
As Brianna reflects:
“Younger me, who was shy and reserved, would have never imagined doing something like this. Take that next step and put yourself forward.”
And as Natalia encourages future applicants:
“For any student considering this program, I would absolutely encourage you to take the leap. It is challenging, inspiring, and unforgettable.”
Considering applying for GABI?
The experience may feel like a big step – but for these students, it became the moment their studies truly connected with the world. Visit the GABI website for more information.
A new industry partnership led by Griffith Business School and the Advanced Design and Prototyping Technologies Institute (ADaPT) is set to accelerate innovation among Gold Coast small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), following a $25,000 sponsorship from Community Bank Paradise Point (Bendigo Bank).
The funding underpins the launch of the SME Boost Innovation Voucher, a pilot initiative designed to help local businesses turn innovative ideas into practical outcomes through collaboration with Griffith University researchers, facilities and students.
The initiative will provide up to 5 SMEs with vouchers of up to $5,000 to undertake short-term, high-impact projects, as well as providing access to advanced prototyping and testing facilities, technical research expertise and student capability.
Griffith Business School’s Professor Naomi Birdthistle brings together her deep academic expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and strong regional networks to support the participating businesses through innovation, commercialisation and market-focused guidance.
Professor Naomi Birdthistle
Professor Birdthistle said the partnership highlights the value of combining engineering capability with business innovation expertise.
“The SME Boost Innovation Voucher is about igniting ideas and creating real impact for SMEs on the Gold Coast. By connecting businesses with Griffith University’s expertise and facilities, we’re building a stronger, more innovative local economy.”
Eligible activities under the voucher scheme include product or service prototyping, material and product testing, feasibility studies, and market validation. Projects will typically run for three to six months, with clearly defined deliverables and light-touch project management to keep collaborations focused and outcomes-driven.
Professor Stefanie Feih, Director of ADaPT, said the scheme was designed to make university collaboration more accessible and impactful for local industry.
“We know many SMEs have strong ideas but limited capacity to engage in R&D. This program provides practical access to facilities, expertise and student talent so businesses can test concepts, refine products and build resilience through innovation,” Professor Feih said.
Younger men who use anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) experience a greater overall burden and complexity of harms than older men, new Griffith University research has found.
Researchers investigated whether age influenced the type of harms and health care challenges experienced by men who used AAS.
The study analysed data from 1,146 men who reported using AAS in the past 12 months.
PhD Candidate Ben Bonenti
PhD candidate from Griffith’s School of Applied Psychology, Ben Bonenti, said the findings were clear and challenged common assumptions about how steroid-related harms developed over time.
“Younger men, aged under 40 years, were significantly more likely to report psychosocial concerns such as anger and depression than older men aged over 40 years,” Mr Bonenti said.
“The younger cohort also reported physical concerns including hair loss and fertility issues.
“They also faced greater barriers to accessing health care, particularly with pharmacies and hospitals.
“These access barriers may compound existing harms by delaying or preventing appropriate care.”
The data showed these issues experienced by younger men often co-occurred as many individuals experienced multiple harms simultaneously rather than in isolation.
In contrast, older men who used AAS tended to report fewer and less complex harms, potentially reflecting safer compound sourcing, and greater integration with health care systems.
Mr Bonenti said the findings showed age alone did not explain patterns of steroid-related harm.
“Instead, they highlight the need for age-specific harm reduction strategies with an emphasis on younger men who appear to experience more complex harm profiles and greater difficulty engaging with support services,” he said.
“Tailored approaches may improve early intervention and reduce long-term health consequences, particularly as we see a global rise in the use of AAS.”
The paper ‘Understanding age-based differences in psychosocial harms, physical harms, and access difficulties among an international sample of men who use anabolic-androgenic steroids’ has been published in American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine.
