Lucy Holmes McHugh Australian Marine Sciences Association 2025 Conference

Lucy Holmes McHugh

Dr Lucy Holmes McHugh is a Research Fellow in Governing Changing Oceans at The University of Melbourne. With a background in political geography, her research brings together political science, public policy, and geography to explore how governance and policy systems can drive more sustainable and equitable responses to climate change. Her work spans marine, coastal, and climate governance, with a particular focus on transitions in complex socio-ecological systems. Lucy’s doctoral research examined climate governance of the Great Barrier Reef and has informed highly cited publications, including in WIRES Climate Change. She was awarded a University Medal for her Masters research at James Cook University, and a Fulbright Scholarship during her PhD. Lucy is currently working with the Science for Nature and People Partnership in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy and the Wildlife Conservation Society, to develop governance strategies that support socially responsible marine climate transitions. Lucy is passionate about building cross-sector partnerships that help shape inclusive and anticipatory governance in the face of climate change.