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Dr Yuvisthi Naidoo, Senior Research Fellow at the ¹úÃñ²ÊƱ Social Policy Research Centre (SPRC), has spent her career tackling the complex issues surrounding social disadvantage. As a lead convenor of the short course Understanding Poverty, Inequality and Social Disadvantage in Australia, Dr Naidoo has dedicated herself to creating a deeper understanding of social policy and its impact.

We had the chance to sit down with her and learn more about her journey, the challenges of social policy research and the work driving change.

What drew you to the field of social policy research?

My journey into social policy research is deeply personal. Growing up during apartheid in South Africa, I experienced first-hand the devastating effects of institutionalised discrimination. That experience shaped my lifelong commitment to social justice.

When I moved to Australia, I initially followed a conventional path, working in corporate marketing and research. During that time, I gained invaluable experience about the way companies operate and the important role they play in providing essential goods and services. However, I felt my skill set and passions were better placed working directly in social policy.

Your research covers a range of social issues. What connects these themes?

At the heart of it, my research is about understanding how people’s living standards are shaped by social and economic policies. Whether it’s focusing on older Australians or families experiencing poverty, the goal for me is the same: to provide a strong robust evidence base that identifies areas where social and economic policies and structures can instrumentally improve people’s lives.

What are some of the challenges related to measuring poverty and how do you ensure you're reflecting it accurately?

Defining poverty that reflects individual experiences — and measuring it in a way that matters — isn't easy. It isn't just about measuring income levels.ÌýAt SPRC, we measure things like material deprivation — the essential items or activities people have to go without. Can you afford rent, healthy food or a trip to the doctor? Can your kids join in on school activities?

We listen to people who have lived it to understand what poverty really feels like.ÌýWe assess if social security payments cover enough for people to participate fully in society. We ask if family policies make it possible for parents to balance work and care effectively. By examining these broader aspects, we get a more complete picture of poverty, which helps us push for more effective policies.

How do you make sure your research influences policy?

That’s a big part of my job. Research is important, but it’s only effective when it translates into action. One example is the budget standards we’ve developed, which show the minimum income needed for different households to live decently. This kind of research helps policymakers create more realistic and impactful social welfare programs that meet people’s needs.

You’ve been a lead researcher in collaborative projects such as the Poverty and Inequality Partnership with ACOSS and for the Uniting Families Report 2024 with Uniting.Ìý

How important is collaboration in social policy research?

Collaboration is everything. Research shouldn’t just be theoretical — it needs to be practical and relevant. I’ve been lucky to work with passionate experts from diverse sectors, which breathes life into the research and makes it actionable. Collaboration allows us to turn broad ideas — like reducing poverty — into concrete, practical actions that have a real and lasting impact.

How does working with people who have lived experience shape your research?

It’s essential. If we’re serious about making a difference, we need to centre the voices of those who are directly impacted by poverty and disadvantage. They’re not just subjects of research — they are equal partners, co-creating solutions. Academics and policy practitioners don’t have all the answers, but when we combine research with experiences of those who live with uncertainty, insecurity and disadvantage firsthand, that’s when change happens.

For those wanting to drive change in their own organisations, where do they start?

Change can start with anyone, at any level. Advocate for evidence-based policies, push for inclusivity and make social impact a key focus in decisions you make. Small steps can lead to big change. Staying informed about wider policy discussions also helps align your organisation’s efforts with what’s happening in society.

One of the things we do in our short course is help people develop the skills to lead change. For instance, our last module is participant driven. Participants pick a social policy issue and apply a framework like the Theory of Change to develop a project or policy idea. The purpose is to show that everyone has the power to create change, no matter their role.

What advice do you have for those looking to pursue a career in social policy research?

Well first, thank you for considering this field. While social policy research might not have the same clear-cut labels as being a lawyer, teacher or accountant, it’s the foundation of how our society functions. It affects everything — the labour force, health, housing, education, childcare, taxation — essentially, the way we live our lives.

It’s a critically important area, and we need more passionate, curious and investigative people who want to make a difference. The beauty of social policy research is that it brings together a wide range of disciplines. Whether you come from economics, social work, law or another field, there’s room for your expertise. Social policy is truly a melting pot of ideas, and that diversity is key to making real change.

Finally, what keeps you motivated in this field?

Seeing the real-world impact of research. When policymakers, advocacy groups or communities engage with our findings and use them to push for positive change, that’s incredibly fulfilling. At the end of the day, research should be about making society more equitable and inclusive.

Dr Yuvisthi Naidoo’s work continues to shape discussions around poverty, inequality and well-being, providing vital insights for policymakers and researchers alike. Her dedication to evidence-based social policy is a testament to the power of research in driving meaningful change.

Learn more about Dr Yuvisthi Naidoo's research, projects and achievements by visiting her Researcher Profile.

Learn more about the Understanding Poverty, Inequality and Social Disadvantage in Australia short course.Ìý

Learn more about the Poverty and Inequality Partnership with ACOSS.

Learn more about the Uniting Families Report 2024 with Uniting NSW.ACT.