Ms Michelle Holian
Higher Degree by Research Candidate
School of Biological Sciences
College of Sciences
"Quantifying the human benefits of community-led marine restoration; mental, emotional, and socio-economic wellbeing of community participation."
My focus is on the socio-economic, human well-being, and ecological benefits of community participation and stewardship of local marine ecosystems.
A key interest is in the governance of community-led conservation and restoration and alignment with government policy, private stakeholder interests and research science. With a primary focus on South Australian coastal marine and estuary ecosystems, I am exploring the characteristics of community-led conservation and restoration that contribute to successful and sustainable outcomes.
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (2022) outlines targets to conserve biodiversity and achieve societal sustainability through a whole-of-society approach. My research seeks to engage with diverse social groups, including Traditional Owners, to understand the ecological and human benefits of participation in community-led conservation to contribute to our global biodiversity targets.
| Date | Position | Institution name |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 - ongoing | Secretary | Australian Marine Sciences Association - SA |
| 2024 - ongoing | Volunteer - Board secretary | Conservation SA |
| 2023 - 2024 | Board Governance | Aboriginal Community Services |
| 2022 - ongoing | Consultant | Petrichor Consulting Australia |
| 2020 - 2022 | CEO | Lighthouse Disability |
| 2019 - 2025 | Board Member | Friends of One And All Sailing Ship |
| Date | Title | Institution name | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Masters in Business Leadership | RMIT University | Australia |
| 1994 | Graduate Diploma in Business | RMIT University | Australia |
| 1986 | Bachelor of Science (Honours) | La Trobe University | Australia |
| 1983 | Bachelor of Science | University of Melbourne | Australia |