Renee Barnes

Associate Professor Renee Barnes is a faculty member at the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC), Australia, affiliated with the School of Business and Creative Industries. She holds academic qualifications including a PhD from La Trobe University and serves as Creative Industries Honours Coordinator. Her research focuses on online participatory practices, online journalism, and social media dynamics, with a particular interest in the intersection of popular culture and political communication.

Dr. Barnes has authored influential books like Uncovering Commenting Culture (2018) and Fandom and Polarization in Online Political Discussion (2022). She has secured grants totaling over $150,000, including projects on online news accessibility for older Australians and regional media portrayal. Professional memberships include the International Association for Media and Communication Research (IAMCR) and the Australia and New Zealand Communication Association (ANZCA), where she serves as Secretary.

• Education:
• PhD, La Trobe University
• MA (Research), La Trobe University
• GradCertTertTeach&Learn, RMIT
• BA, University of Queensland

Her teaching areas include Online Journalism, Podcasting, Social Media Communication, and Entrepreneurial Journalism. She advises students on topics related to online participation and political communication. Dr. Barnes is part of the Engage Research Lab and has published extensively in journals such as Journal of Alternative and Community Media and Media International Australia.