Hazel Blunden

Hazel Blunden is a Senior Research Fellow at the Social Policy Research Centre (SPRC) at UNSW Sydney. Her research focuses on housing policy, homelessness, and program evaluations for governments. She holds a PhD in Human Geography (Macquarie University, 2002) and a BA (Hons) in Sociology (La Trobe University, 1994). Hazel has extensive experience in urban planning and social policy, including roles at Western Sydney University and Shelter NSW. She has authored numerous publications on housing and homelessness and advises on affordable housing strategies.

• Affiliations: SPRC (UNSW), Inner West Council Affordable Housing Reference Committee
• Education: PhD (Human Geography, Macquarie University), BA (Sociology, La Trobe University)

Her research interests include urban sociology, social change, and policy evaluation. She leads projects like the Homes for Families and Together Home evaluations. Hazel also teaches social sciences and research methods at multiple universities, including UNSW, UTS, and Western Sydney University.

• Awards: Vice Chancellors Excellence In Engaged Research Award (2014)
• Grants: Contracts with governments and NGOs via competitive tender

Her work emphasizes participatory approaches with vulnerable populations and spans housing instability, youth transitions, and domestic violence programs.