Philippa Collin

Professor Philippa Collin is a leading academic at Western Sydney University, specializing in youth participation, democracy, mental health, and climate activism. Her research bridges sociological theory with practical policy interventions, focusing on marginalized youth and digital engagement.

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy, University of Sydney
• Bachelor of Arts - Communication Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in International Studies

Research Interests: Philippa’s work examines youth political agency, digital health literacy, and the sociopolitical dimensions of climate activism. She critiques democratic disengagement and advocates for participatory approaches in policy-making. Key areas include youth-led climate movements, mental health co-design, and digital citizenship.

Impact & Awards:

• Recipient of the 2009 Australian Political Studies Association Best PhD Dissertation Prize
• 2015 Research Excellence through Partnership Award from Western Sydney University
• Epiphany Fellow at Durham University (2022)

Projects & Grants: Current initiatives include evaluating youth climate activism’s democratic potential (Australian Research Council-funded), and mental health co-design with Batyr Australia. She leads over 30 projects on youth engagement, digital health, and social cohesion.

Collaborations: Philippa collaborates globally on youth-focused research, including UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3 & 13). Her work integrates transdisciplinary methods to address complex societal challenges.