Matthew Tonts

Matthew Tonts is Professor of Geography and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Education at The University of Western Australia. He joined UWA in 2001 and has held significant leadership positions including Head of the School of Earth and Environment (2010-2016) and Director of the Institute for Regional Development (2005-2010).

His research spans several key areas in geography and planning:

• Environmental geography
• Regional development
• Rural communities
• Spatial planning
• Urban geography
• Western Australia studies

Professor Tonts' recent scholarly work demonstrates a strong comparative approach to regional development, with particular emphasis on resource industries, rural planning cultures, and the impacts of economic restructuring on communities. His publications span geography, urban studies, agricultural science, and political economy, reflecting his interdisciplinary perspective on spatial development issues.

His notable recognition includes being elected a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia in 2020.

With over 150 scholarly publications and supervision of more than 40 PhD students to completion, Professor Tonts has established himself as a leading figure in Australian geography. He has secured numerous research grants, including multiple projects funded by the Australian Research Council, and has led UWA's research partnership with the Committee for Perth since 2008, demonstrating his commitment to translating research into practical applications for regional development.