Modernising economic regulation in the face of rapid technological change and uncertainty

About this project

Develop novel frameworks to address contemporary environmental problems 

If you are keen to launch your career in economics and are passionate about addressing important water and environmental issues, the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – is offering a hands-on project-based PhD within the Centre for Markets, Values and Inclusion (CMVI), in partnership with the Essential Services Commission of Victoria, Melbourne Water Corporation, Sydney Water Corporation, Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal and Water Research Australia.

Our project considers how economic regulation of the water sector could be adapted to be more responsive. In many cases, climate change and environmental stresses require urgent deployment of new technologies. We want to understand if and how we can change the way economic regulators currently operate to meet the needs of this new environment. Our project sits within a wider body of work supported by the Australian water industry. 

You will be based within CMVI. The Centre offers a highly collaborative and collegial research environment. Our partnerships will ensure that you gain exposure to industry leaders, other highly regarded researchers, and government personnel. This is a national project, so you will have every opportunity to build a strong professional network and gain experiences that will give you a competitive edge in the job market. 

What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will undertake a wide variety of tasks, including analysing regulatory and industry materials and synthesising current practices in water regulation. 

You will also help develop and refine theoretical frameworks, collect quantitative and qualitative primary data, and undertake empirical analysis of secondary data. You will receive training in economic analysis and how to apply contemporary software.

We will support you in developing and presenting your results at both academic and industry local and national events. You will also submit work to high-quality publications and develop industry-accessible reports. 

You will have a unique opportunity to work closely and build rapport with key industry representatives. It may also be possible for you to gain exposure and experience at similar international events. 

You will be required to travel to Melbourne and Sydney to collect data and you will likely join the Essential Services Commission of Victoria during the data collection phase.

Where you’ll be based

You will be based within the CMVI. We combine specialist skills and multidisciplinary perspectives to provide a transdisciplinary approach to delivering meaningful research, which informs innovative, evidence-based solutions for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Our research informs public and private sector choices and policies and addresses global development and governance issues in populations experiencing inequity. We also develop incentives for business and not-for-profits to develop, monitor and report on socially responsible enterprises. Financial Support

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $35,200 per annum (2025 rate) is available to eligible applicants. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $52,352 (2025 rate) per annum. A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information for domestic students or international students.

An additional top-up scholarship with a value of $15,000 per annum will be offered to the preferred applicant.

Eligibility and Selection

This project is open to applications from both Domestic and International applicants. 

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. Additionally, applicants must meet the project selection criteria: 

• A capacity to work collaboratively and sensitively with industry and government
• Proven ability to work in a team with others on related projects

Applicant who can also demonstrate the following will be highly regarded:

• Experience or understanding of economic regulation

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our City West campus in the heart of Adelaide.

Essential Dates

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Thursday, 28 November.