International Development 2025 research wrap-up

Program highlights

Emissions Measurement to Improve Sanitation in Indonesia (EMISI)

Researchers in ISF’s International Development team are working with sanitation experts from Indonesia, Australia and the UK to measure greenhouse gas emissions from diverse sanitation systems in Indonesia, and to provide recommendations for improving sanitation while minimising emissions. This project is an initiative of Ministry of Public Works of the Government of Indonesia, supported through DFAT’s Indonesia Australia Partnership for Infrastructure. Find out how the project is going here.

RDI Network Exchange

In July, ISF hosted the international Research for Development Impact (RDI) Network’s conference. Over two days, 130 presenters and hundreds of changemakers from across Australia and the Indo-Pacific came together to take part in a dynamic, innovative and thought-provoking event. See more here.

UNICEF East Asia and Pacific Regional Office Partnership

Since 2023, ISF International Development researchers have worked closely with UNICEF to develop research, knowledge and learning support for water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) for UNICEF’s regional and country offices. The research and resources focus on three main themes: Climate-resilient WASH services, universal access to safely managed services, and inclusion, gender equality, human rights and accountability. Read more here.

Coming up in 2026…

Inclusive energy transitions for Oxfam Australia

This year, ISF International Development team formed a partnership with Oxfam Australia to conduct action learning research that will showcase and strengthen feminist approaches to the renewable energy transition. The project aims to promote inclusive and just energy transitions in Philippines, Indonesia and across ASEAN. A report synthesising the research will be released mid-2026.  

"This year, our researchers shaped conversations, defined practical action, and strengthened our regional community for development futures", said ISF International Development Program Lead, Keren Winterford.

"In 2026, we will keep asking critical questions, explore new and transformational ways of working, and partner with like-minded changemakers to deliver just, sustainable solutions."