Queensland Kids Partnership (QKP) and James Cook University (JCU) signed an umbrella agreement in Townsville today (17 April 2026).
The agreement marks a significant step forward in their shared commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people across Northern Queensland.
It brings together JCU’s world-class research and teaching capability, and its deep regional connections, with QKP’s cross-sector expertise and statewide networks and will translate research, evidence and lived experience into practical action.
The agreement between JCU and the Queensland Kids Partnership will bring together the great research and teaching capabilities, and the connections of JCU across northern Queensland, with QKP’s expertise and networks.
QKP is backed by philanthropies to work across sectors and communities in key areas like place, hubs and disasters, helping to take the latest science, evidence and lived experience into practice.
This agreement will enable practical collaborations with a shared goal for children and young people and their families and communities across the region to thrive.
The partnership will aim to advance place-based reform, mental health and neurodevelopment research, workforce capability and integrated service models.
Key priorities include strengthening regional initiatives, progressing place-based research forums, expanding brain health initiatives, and embedding systems-based approaches into tertiary education and micro-credential programs.
With QKP’s, Alisha Chand, co-located at JCU’s Townsville campus, both organisations are well positioned to deepen collaboration across research, teaching and community engagement.
Together, JCU and QKP are committed to fostering a productive, high-impact relationship that drives innovative research and educational programs in critical areas. This foundation provides a unique opportunity to transform the systems and environments that shape young lives, equip leaders and workforces, strengthen communities, and create the conditions for every young Queenslander to thrive.
Read full story here: www.jcu.edu.au/news/releases/2026/april/jcu-strengthens-partnership-to-drive-better-outcomes-for-north-queensland-children
Image L-R: Alisha Chand – QKP, Micheal Hogan – QKP, Valeriya Radomskaya – JCU Research and Partnerships Office, Professor Allan Dale – Professor of Tropical Regional Development, The Cairn Institute JCU, Professor Jenny Seddon – Deputy Vice Chancellor – Research JCU, John Matthews – JCU Research and Partnerships Office
