2019-05-07 P&E Agenda - Item 3 - Attachment 1 - Noosa Sustainability Institute - Concepts and Options Report

Basic Structure
   Would require at least a part time Institute Manager and the formation of a Steering Committee
    that meets on a semi regular basis at least a few times a year. The Manager need not have
    strong research experience.
   The Steering Committee helps Council determine the broad research objectives and assess
    submitted research proposals.
   The Institute is developed in a manner that could partner but is not dependant on partnering with
    other activities and organisations in the Noosa area, but shares information and data where
    appropriate.
Aims
   All projects must demonstrate that the outputs will have benefit to the Noosa region.
   Input of community members in research projects is encouraged.
   The community and research groups have the opportunity to suggest ideas and concepts for
    research topics to the Steering Committee.
   Interactions with other projects and activities is encouraged.
   The broader scope of projects encourages funding and support from a wider base of potential
    support agencies.
   Community communication, engagement and broad community uptake is encouraged.
   Can incorporate a range of activities apart from the research projects that encourage and
    enhance the community engagement.
Pros
o   Cross-project engagement increases the potential for successful outcomes that have strong links
    to the Noosa environment and community.
o   Institute structure can be run with a mix of a physical and virtual on-line structure.
o   A Steering Committee overseeing the Institute increases the rigour of the research outcomes.
o   The potential for return and follow-on projects increases.
Cons
o   Increased management costs.
o   Greater data management and storage requirements.
o   Increased complexity for project approvals and support, including contractual requirements such
    as IP agreements, etc.




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