RTP

Curtin University is advertising a PhD scholarship opportunity in housing economics and fertility outcomes. The project asks how housing challenges affect family formation and parenthood, and what the wider social and economic consequences are for Australia.

The research will examine links between housing affordability, housing tenure, family-friendly housing, fertility intentions, timing of childbirth, and the total number of children born. It also aims to assess how housing policy can support fertility growth and reduce negative demographic and inequality effects.

Ideal candidate: a PhD applicant with a strong interest in housing research, a background in economics or a related social science discipline, and strong quantitative skills. Familiarity with STATA or R is desirable. Applicants must meet Curtin University PhD entry requirements.

Eligibility: this opportunity is open to domestic applicants only. The post says candidates based anywhere in Australia may discuss the opportunity with the supervisor.

Funding: the preferred candidate may be considered for an RTP scholarship.

Supervisor/announcer: Professor Rachel Ong ViforJ, John Curtin Distinguished Professor in Economics at Curtin University and Vice-Chair of the Asia-Pacific Network for Housing Research.

How to apply: contact Professor Rachel ViforJ by email for enquiries, then submit an Expression of Interest during the Central Scholarship round.

Application window: July 1–31, 2026.