Teaching

Economics and Property academics in the School of Business provide students with a strong foundation in economic theory, applied analysis, and policy evaluation, preparing graduates to address complex business and societal challenges. 

The Economics major combines mainstream economic theory with behavioural economics and critical perspectives, enabling students to analyse issues through multiple lenses and apply both quantitative and qualitative methods to real-world problems. Teaching emphasises practical and industry-oriented learning through applied research projects, cost-benefit analysis, and engagement with real cases and clients, while developing highly transferable analytical and critical thinking skills. With a focus on areas such as microeconomic analysis, industry regulation, macroeconomic policy, sustainability, and social welfare, the program prepares graduates for careers across government, banking and finance, NGOs, consultancies, think tanks, and business development. 

The Property major and Master’s degree emphasise strong industry alignment, enabling students to benefit from professionally recognised pathways, access to industry networks, and a practice‑focused curriculum designed to prepare graduates for successful careers across property valuation, investment, development, asset management, and related fields. The Property programs offer a range of student engagement initiatives, including industry guest lectures, case competitions, and professional events, providing valuable insights into contemporary practice and opportunities to connect with industry professionals. 

Additionally, the Property programs are professionally accredited by the Australian Property Institute (API), the peak body representing property professionals in Australia. This accreditation underpins the quality and future success of both our Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, ensuring alignment with current industry standards and professional competencies. Western’s Property programs are recognised among the best in the region, having achieved the top ranking in Australia and Oceania for Real Estate in the 2023 EduRank subject rankings. 

Research

Research within the Economics and Property disciplines addresses major contemporary economic, financial, social, environmental, and urban challenges through interdisciplinary and policy-oriented inquiry. Key areas of focus include sustainability and green finance, housing affordability and property markets, urban and regional development, public policy, health and social economics, tourism, financial markets, and organisational governance. Researchers examine issues such as climate change and net-zero transitions, cooperative and low-income housing, financial inclusion, labour markets, demographic change, public health costs, tourism resilience, and economic development in both Australian and international contexts. Across these themes, academics employ advanced quantitative, qualitative, and applied policy methods to generate research that informs governments, industries, communities, and international policy debates, with a strong emphasis on real-world impact and socially responsive economic analysis.