Damien Spry

Dr. Damien Spry is an Adjunct Research Fellow at the University of South Australia (UniSA), affiliated with UniSA Justice & Society and previously with the School of Creative Industries. His research spans digital diplomacy, social media analytics, public engagement, and youth interactions with mobile media. He has conducted extensive empirical studies on Facebook diplomacy by foreign ministries, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.

• Institution: University of South Australia
• School: School of Creative Industries
• Role: Adjunct Research Fellow
• Email: Damien.Spry@unisa.edu.au

His research focuses on the intersection of digital media and international relations, emphasizing audience engagement, institutional practices, and algorithmic influences. He employs mixed-methods approaches, combining quantitative metrics with qualitative content analysis to evaluate diplomatic communication on platforms like Facebook.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward data-driven, user-focused models of digital diplomacy. His work frequently examines how ministries of foreign affairs engage publics, the relevance of content, and emotional resonance in digital outreach. He also explores cultural representations, such as Australia in South Korean media, and broader themes of soft power in East and Southeast Asia.

Notable scientific contributions include methodological innovations using tools like Netvizz and Leximancer, and conceptual frameworks for categorizing diplomatic discourse on social media. His research has been published in Media International Australia, Hague Journal of Diplomacy, and by publishers such as SAGE, Routledge, and Brill.

Dr. Spry has advised on digital engagement strategies for government agencies like DFAT and the Department of Defence. His work has been supported by grants such as the ARC Australian Postgraduate Industry Award. He has contributed to policy-oriented reports, notably for the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.

He has been involved in research teams exploring digital workers, youth media use, and online safety. His earlier work included studies on mobile youth cultures in Japan and Australia, and digital inclusion for chronically ill youth through platforms like Livewire. His future research trajectory appears focused on diversifying digital diplomacy models across the Asia-Pacific and refining audience-centric approaches in public diplomacy.