A strategic agreement to develop and provide professional climate training was signed by USC Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill and representatives from Climate Risk Pty Ltd (Australia/UK) and CLIMsystems Ltd of New Zealand at the University on Tuesday 5 December.

The agreement, signed at the South East Queensland Climate Change Adaptation Demonstration Project inaugural workshop which was hosted by the University of the Sunshine Coast, paves the way for Australia’s first accredited climate change training for business and government risk professionals. Under the agreement, the parties will combine their collective expertise to deliver professional and technical programs which will equip the public and private sector to make informed decisions about managing the risks arising from climatic variability and change.

Professor Hill said the joint venture planned to develop a range of training programs, from two-day executive primers right up to Masters level qualifications.

“It’s an opportunity for us to be part of a consortium that’s working at the cutting edge of climate change research, teaching and risk management,'’ he said. “It will lift the profile of the University and provide great opportunities for staff and students.”

USC Environmental Science Associate Professor Peter Waterman said the University’s joint venture with Climate Risk and CLIMsystems was a logical partnership.

“The University has already developed a suite of professional development programs in study areas relating to climate change ranging from graduate certificates to Masters degrees,” he said.

Climate Risk’s Director of Corporate Risk, Gareth Johnston, said: “This unique alliance bridges science and industry and will equip a pool of professionals with climate change risk management and adaptation skills. Improved climate risk management capacity is vital for both business and government”.