Review of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service research utilisation practices

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is committed to integrating scientific research with practical environmental stewardship to prevent and manage fire risks in its parks. Recognising that the application of scientific insights can significantly enhance response capabilities, NPWS aims to bridge the gap between research and operational practice to improve bushfire management. This research project was undertaken to fulfil the requirements of an internship provided and supported by Natural Hazards Research Australia (the Centre) as part of its dedication to fostering the use of research knowledge and data to build safer, more sustainable and resilient communities.

The project specifically aimed to address challenges related to the limited awareness and inconsistent integration of bushfire research into operational planning and delivery. These challenges included organisational complexities, communication barriers and the lack of standardised processes that hinder the seamless adoption of research findings in practice. By analysing how organisational structures, individual roles and operational strategies interact within NPWS, this project sought to understand current research translation practices and identify gaps in research utilisation.

The overarching goal was to develop practical recommendations to enhance the integration and application of scientific insights in bushfire management. The expected outcomes include improved research-driven decision-making and operational enhancements within NPWS. Moreover, these findings offer potential benefits beyond NSW, contributing to national improvements in conservation and the overall response to bushfire challenges.