His research interests focus on the implications of climate change for workers, both in terms of what it means for traditional wage-labour relations and for emergent forms of work and labour organising. As labour markets are increasingly characterised by precarious non-standard forms of work, it is important to consider the ways in which workers are able to exercise collective agency in response to socio-ecological transformations. While, at the same time, the challenge of climate change means re-evaluating what we consider ‘work’, including the sorts of care and regenerative work not currently valued by labour-markets, to ensure that economic activity can be reoriented towards more sustainable configurations. Research of this kind can contribute to meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8, which aims toward sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all by 2030.
To that end, Connor is working with the Australian Unemployed Workers Union to help develop a Green Job Guarantee policy proposal. He has also authored publications on resistance to fossil fuel production, particularly as it relates to the Adani mine controversy, and has provided advice to several environmental NGOs.
Supervisors:
Associate Professor Lauren Rickards
Associate Professor Susie Moloney
