CPOW addresses inequalities in the world of work to create sustainable, fair and decent work for all.

Who we are || CPOW is an interdisciplinary centre located in RMIT’s College of Business and Law. CPOW is a lively collaboration between passionate and engaged researchers committed to social justice. Our community of researchers use a range of critical conceptual frameworks and methods in analysing contemporary problems in the world of work.

What we do || Our research agenda is based on principles of fairness, equality – especially gender equality – sustainability and social justice. It is worker-centred and focuses on people at work and in their communities, particularly those who are vulnerable and marginalised. Our current research is organised around four main themes in the world of work:

• Work of Social Care
• Gender & Equality
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Political Economy of Work
• Digital Work & Society 

How we do it || Our research and engagement is focused on identifying the conditions for fairness and equality at work, amplifying the voices of those undertaking work and their collective organisations. We investigate key issues in the world of work through rigorous, interdisciplinary analyses of empirical evidence, in partnership with communities, governments and industry. We proactively participate in public and policy debates and develop grounded interventions for better social and economic futures.

CPOW’s commitment to key UN Sustainable Development Goals || Research undertaken by CPOW members responds to the UN’s Global Challenges agenda and is directly aligned with six key Sustainable Development goals: