Environmental research
Rottnest Island is the subject of a wide range of research, conducted by schools, universities, government organisations, research institutions and volunteer groups. The Rottnest Island Authority is always keen to encourage new research proposals and has many projects that require investigation.
If you wish to see the range of issues which require assistance, please refer to the Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003 – 2008 and the current RIA Research Strategy.
Rottnest Island Marine & Terrestrial Reserve Research Funding Program
The Rottnest Island Authority is inviting proposals from interested parties to conduct research within the Rottnest Island Marine and Terrestrial Reserve.To find out more take a look at the research proposals page.
Research reports
The Rottnest Island Authority is developing a collection of research theses and reports of projects that have been conducted on the Island. Abstracts and/ or full reports will be posted on the Rottnest Island website over a period of time to make information available to potential researchers. Future research reports, as they are received, will also be linked to the website.
We hope to be able to provide a complete list of all research and associated reports in the near future to enable free dissemination of information and to encourage future studies.
Conducting research on Rottnest Island
If you wish to conduct research on Rottnest Island you will need to sign an Indemnity form and obtain a Research Permit, as all flora and fauna is protected within the Rottnest Island Reserve.
If you wish to visit Rottnest Island and carry out your own research for educational purposes, it is mandatory to acquire a temporary Research Permit.
Permits can be obtained by downloading the application and indemnity forms and submitting them via email only to the Volunteer & Research Coordinator rosie.smith@rottnestisland.com
Forms must be submitted at least four weeks prior to your intended visit, and research permits are issued subjected to conditions of the Rottnest Island Act and Regulations. For further information please contact Rian Caccianiga, Conservation Officer on +61 8 9372 9774.
To obtain a Research application form please click on the appropriate link below.
Guidelines for submitting a research study/permit application to Rottnest Island Authority (Word doc. 196KB)
Student group application form (pdf 33KB)
School group application form (pdf 33KB)
Individual application form (pdf 67KB)
Research indemnity form (pdf 23KB)
Driving permit application form (Word doc. 23KB)
Research accommodation
Accommodation for researchers is available at the UWA Research Station. A vehicle is also supplied.
Island transport
If you require the use of the vehicle on the Island a separate driving permit needs to be obtained as well as a research permit. This is due to the special driving conditions and rules that you will need to obey when driving on the Island.
If you wish to use these facilities please contact Dr Jane Prince at the Department of Zoology, UWA on +61 8 6488 1496 or via e-mail: jprince@cyllene.uwa.edu.au