Dr Miriam McGarry
Professional Background
Miriam works across a range of content areas at FPC, with particular interest in research-led projects. She enjoys working in project areas of built and natural environments, social policy, and cultural industries. Her approach combines rigorous academic research methods with practical application to complex policy areas.
In addition to her Senior Consultant role at FPC, Miriam also works at a a not-for-profit architecture and design firm on housing, public space, environmental restoration, and design research projects. She also hosts a podcast on policies relating to housing affordability, aimed at making complex policy issues accessible to broader audiences.
Since joining FPC in 2020, Miriam has worked on a range of projects in the areas of environmental management, energy efficiency and sustainability, creative industries, public space, and emergency management.
Areas of Expertise
Miriam's expertise spans the intersection of environmental and social issues, with particular strength in qualitative research methods, cultural policy analysis, and complex systems evaluation. Her interdisciplinary approach combines sociological insights with practical policy applications.
Specialist Expertise
- Qualitative Research Methods: Skills in qualitative data collection and analysis, including interviews, surveys, and ethnographic approaches
- Desktop Research and Literature Reviews: Expert in comprehensive literature reviews and desktop research methodologies for complex policy areas
- Complex Systems Analysis: Ability to understand and evaluate complex systems involving multiple stakeholders and intersecting policy domains
- Data Synthesis: Skilled in synthesising diverse data sources to produce coherent analysis and actionable recommendations
- Policy and Planning Expertise: Knowledge in policy areas including urban governance, cultural policy, housing and environment.
Selected Projects
Miriam has contributed to diverse research and evaluation projects spanning environmental management and sustainability, cultural policy, and urban planning. Her work demonstrates expertise in qualitative research methods, complex policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement across multiple sectors.
Social and Economic Outcomes from the Reef Builder Project
Assessed social and economic impacts of shellfish reef restoration across 13 sites in Australia. Conducted comprehensive research into impacts on fishing, diving, tourism, education, and community participation through interviews, surveys, and case studies.
Evaluation of the Outdoor Trading Program
Evaluated COVID-19 response program supporting hospitality, hairdressing, and fitness businesses. Conducted online surveys and phone interviews to assess program effectiveness in supporting economic recovery and community engagement.
Alternative Body Disposal Options Research
Conducted desktop research on alternative body disposal options to reduce environmental impact. Completed comprehensive literature review and in-depth research project, with results presented to stakeholders via online presentation.
VicScreen Content Development Programs Evaluation
Evaluated four key program offerings including Development on Demand, Originate Suite, Frame Doc Labs, and First Peoples Writers Workshop. Conducted comprehensive program logic development and gender impact assessment.
VicScreen Skills/Work Placement Program Evaluation
Evaluated placement, attachment and internship opportunities program. Conducted comprehensive evaluation including gender impact assessment and wide-reaching stakeholder consultation across the creative industries sector.
VicScreen Audience Engagement Program Evaluation
Evaluated program supporting audience engagement in creative industries. Developed program logic, conducted comprehensive documentation review, and implemented primary data collection including surveys and stakeholder interviews.
Education & Qualifications
Miriam's educational background combines sociology and history, providing a strong foundation for her interdisciplinary approach to research and evaluation in complex policy areas, particularly at the intersection of environmental and social issues.
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Doctor of Philosophy (Sociology)
University of Tasmania, 2018
Doctoral thesis examined the impact of MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) on cultural policy and urban planning in Hobart, applying social science qualitative research methods to understand the complex relationships between cultural institutions, policy development, and urban governance. -
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History
University of Melbourne
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Graduate Certificate in Research Methods
University of Tasmania
Professional Experience
- Senior Consultant - First Person Consulting (2020-present)
- Head of Research - OFFICE (not-for-profit architecture and design firm) (2023-present, part time)
- Researcher and tutor - Monash University, University of Tasmania, University of South Australia (various periods, previous)