Understanding Regional Patterns in Aboriginal Housing via the Midja Data Analysis and Mapping System

This paper will describe and demonstrate an online system developed through a cross-disciplinary collaboration between the Aboriginal Environments Research Centre (AERC), Institute for Social Science Research (ISSR) and the School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering (ITEE) at the University of Queensland. 

The Midja system provides a novel Web interface that enables dynamic integration, spatial overlay and statistical analysis of relevant datasets in order to improve our understanding of Aboriginal Housing needs across regions and time. Midja enables interactive analysis and synthesis of qualitative and quantitative information relevant to Indigenous Housing researchers, planners and policy-makers in Australia, via an interactive user interface. 

Through two case studies, this paper will illustrate how the Midja system can lead to improved understandings of Indigenous Housing needs and more effective programs tailored and targeted specifically at those regions and communities in greatest need.